Stressed feelings start — and end — in the head

By Michael Crom
Gannett News Service

If you are feeling excessively tired and worried lately about your job, it's time to relax.

We often stretch ourselves much too thin and, in the process, end up feeling stressed out and tired.

Here are some ideas that may help you relax more and maintain a positive outlook on both your professional and personal life.

• Learn to relax at work. This may be easier said than done, but it is necessary in maintaining a healthy attitude and body. Our bodies and minds react negatively to stressful situations, and it is important that we stop stress at the source to prevent it from carrying over to other parts of our life.

If work is the main cause of stress for you, take time to relax throughout the day. Think about the worst thing that could happen if you do not perform your absolute best that day (it probably isn't too bad). You will find that this lets you gain more perspective and may eliminate some worry.

• Protect your health by relaxing at home. It is equally important to relax when you are at home. Keep your mind clear of negative thoughts about work and what you need to get done the next day. Focus on the present and enjoy the time you have with your loved ones. Realize that you also need time away to do what you enjoy.

While you are at home, try to keep the stresses of work from consuming your thoughts. This will make your relaxing time more effective and enjoyable.

• Rest before you get tired. We often try to cram so much into our day that we forget about what all the running around is doing to our minds and bodies. When you feel yourself starting to get tired, it is imperative that you take that as a cue from your body to relax.

• Put enthusiasm into your work. Instead of dreading the stresses of work, try to integrate positive thoughts and enthusiasm into your job. Wake up every morning feeling positive, and this feeling will carry you through the day. Throw your energy into your work so you leave with a positive attitude and a sense of accomplishment.

Michael Crom is executive vice president of Dale Carnegie Training.