Stress Free Me!

Today we spent an hour answering some journal questions to help work out what makes us stressed. Stress is one of the biggest factors that can lead us to feeling incapable, overwhelmed, upset, angry, and exhausted. It is there for everyone, it is just how we manage it that makes the difference. Coping with stress is one of the biggest things that we need to master and what I help the most as a coach.

Our journalling session went through some questions to get you thinking about your thoughts, your values and re-framing when you feel like you are bubbling up with stress. I had some light-bulb moments that I would like to share with you. We wrote down our top 5 negative thoughts of stressful situations, people or places. We then re-framed these thoughts to be more helpful.

My negative thought was; 'stop being such a pain in the arse!' I was so blinded by others not being thoughtful and kind towards me, that I didn't realise I was actually being thoughtless and unkind towards them! I got on my high horse thinking well they aren't being very thoughtful, which made me feel cross and I would be snappy towards them. I am talking about my kids, who when they argue or just don't listen to me, frustrates me. I re-framed this to recognise what is going on and to ask; 'are you ok?' or 'Do you need a hug?' It made me feel a lot happier and less stressed.

Another example was with my husband when he is on his phone or working and I think you are so rude, listen to me!! I mean seriously, I am obviously the most important thing in this world!! When I wrote that down I was a little embarrassed as I recognised how unreasonable I was being. So I changed this to; 'have you got a moment?' Or 'Is this a good time to talk?' Again it made me feel a lot more kind and thoughtful recognising that he works so hard and isn't purposefully being rude to me.

From these re-framed thoughts we then worked out how we could put them into practice.

It is always helpful to take time to journal around areas that you aren't happy about as you often discover something you didn't expect. I run these sessions every month so do come along and see what light-bulb moments happen for you.

Imagine a calmer, more stress free life...work through these journalling questions to start today x