How to better manage your stress

This post came out from The New Paper (28 July 2015)
Title - How to better manage your stress

Some pointers that I've got are:
1. Be organised and prioritise demands
2. Concentrate on what you can control
3. Revaluate your strengths, passion and values
4. Exercise or pick up a hobby
5. Be charitable

On Be organised and prioritise demands

• Put aside 10 to 15 minutes at the start of each workday to plan your day and week ahead. With compelling deadlines and rapidly changing priorities, list all the tasks you have to complete and highlight those that are more urgent or important.
• As mornings are when you are the most well-rested and alert, attend to urgent or important priorities first, although they may not be the most enjoyable or most simple of tasks.

On Concentrate on what you can control

• Identify the sources of your stress and differentiate between those you can control and those you cannot. 
• Quit agonising over matters you have no control over. Instead, channel your energy into areas you can control like increasing your productivity level or the quality of your work. Spending effort on what you can control propels you forward and invigorates you.

On Revaluate your strengths, passion and values

• Ideally, your career should be in line with the above three factors. People are more fulfilled when they perceive that their careers are meaningful, offer them ample opportunities to utilise skills they value and prospects to shine and excel in their chosen areas of expertise. 
• If you feel your current job offers you none of these aspects, it's time to rethink if you're truly suitable for the job. 

On Exercise or pick up a hobby

• When exercising, the body releases mood-lifting endorphins. It also helps your release the physical tension and stiffness accumulated from sitting at your desk  for long hours. 
• Or, pick up a hobby that allows you to express yourself creatively.

On Be charitable

• Take some time out to help the needy. It will help you see your life in perspective and help you develop a sense of purpose. 

Yours,
Something Small Thinking Big