Reducing Stress

Thinking of creative solutions, turning a negative into a positive or accepting something as it is.

Try this approach to problem solve in a practical and systematic way:

1) Write out a list of possible options you have. Use available resources such as the internet and friends for extra inspiration and be as creative and ‘leftfield’ as you can – sometimes these can be the best ideas.

2) Seperate these and write ‘pros’ and ‘cons’ for each one. Does this make any of them more attractive?

3) Discuss it with  a family member, close friend or colleague. A second opinion might help.

4) Pick one option and go for it…

5) Review how it went. If necessary – revise your plan.

“If we take man as he is, we make him worse. If we take man as he could be, we make him better.”

Viktor Frankl talks about how everyone – even (and especially) those who are lost and make lots of mistakes – is searching for a meaning in life. To do, to be, something better. To see past these surface errors and see the good in them – and share this belief with them – is a powerful thing to do.

a search for meaning

“If you pre-suppose… that there must be a spark, a search for meaning… let’s recognise this… and then you will illicit it from him and you will make him become what he is principally capable of becoming”.

I suppose we all make mistakes but are all capable of growing. To believe in others, as we wish others to believe in us, can only help us both.

Thank you Joanna for the link.

When a friend doesn’t return your call, does it mean they are avoiding you? Or could it mean they are busy, a bit down or didn’t get the message somehow?

Try not to jump to conclusions or ‘personalise’, making negative interpretations and assumptions even if there are no definite facts.

Give someone the benefit of the doubt today – ask them if they’re OK.

Instead of only thinking of your weaknesses try thinking of your strengths as well.

Instead of focussing on worries, focus on what (and who) makes you happy and calm.