If you are thinking, "Avoid stress??? Yeah, right!" then this intention is for you. Much of the stress we experience in any given day is self-inflicted. In other words, we can actually develop a habit of seeking out stress to achieve a "rush". While it may seem like being the type that "eats stress for breakfast" is a good thing, your body will tell you otherwise.
To reduce the negative effects of stress on your body, like increased blood pressure and body fat, it will be important for you to identify and then avoid or resolve major stressors in your life. There are two keys to remember when you tackle these stressors:
Should you avoid or resolve? If you are unsure about how to handle a stressor, you can answer a simple question to guide you. Do you feel stressed when the source of stress is not around you? If the answer is yes, then avoiding the stressor will be helpful. If the answer is no, resolution will be your best option. Know when to take a management approach. While avoidance or resolution will work well when dealing with relational stress, you may need to develop a plan to manage other stressors that are environmental. Resolving environmental stress can often be easier when you get the help of an outside observer who understands your environment. The most important thing to remember about stress is that you will ultimately deal with it. If you decide to take no action, your body will take action for you and your health will suffer.
One strategy for conflict resolution involves :
Step 1: Identify the source of the conflict;
Step 2: Look beyond the incident;
Step 3: Request solutions;
Step 4: Identify solutions both disputants can support;
Step 5: Agreement.
OR
Try this communication template
When you....
I feel...
So next time...