Stress in our personal and professional lives is ever changing and constantly on the rise. Everyday we’re expected to do more and more with less and less - less resources, less energy and less time. In order to master the ability to manage stress, it’s important to first remove one of the biggest obstacles that stands between chaos and calm - SELF. Often we are one of the biggest contributors to the calamity and chaos we experience in our lives. Stress management is the recognition that life is all about the choices we make. Starting today, choose to take control and follow these simple tips to help you lead a stress-less lifestyle.

* Choose To Be Short on Complaints, Long on Praise

Far too often, we are quick as a whip to complain when we feel we have been wronged, yet we are not as quick to lavish praise. Complaining about every little thing is very stressful and draining. Instead of complaining, why not contribute. Starting today, make a point to praise those who have had a positive impact on your life – from the cashier who didn’t pack your bread on the bottom of the bag, to the mechanic who didn’t scare you into an unnecessary repair, to the neighbor who is willing to baby sit on ten minutes notice. Doing so will not only make you feel good, but will make a difference in a positive way and make someone else feel great.

* Choose To Love The Skin You’re In

Actress Jamie Lee Curtis, known for

Chasing after beauty defined by others (media, family, friends, spouse, co-workers and others) is detrimental to your peace of mind. Be bold and love the skin you’re in right now – crooked nose, warts, corns, receding hairline, wrinkles, sags, bulges and all. Appreciate your natural beauty and love yourself just the way you are.

* Choose To Pass On Perfection

Think of how many things don’t get done because someone is waiting for the perfect time, place and circumstance. Working with perfection as your standard is both a mental and physical drain. Lose the need to get everything done “perfect.” Know that it’s far better to accomplish a task at 85% perfection than to procrastinate and wait for 100% perfection.

Remember that a stress-less life is all about choice – what are you going to choose today?

Joy Fisher-Sykes is a professional speaker, author, and success coach in the areas of leadership, motivation, stress management, customer service, and team building. You can e-mail her at mailto:jfsykes@thesykesgrp.com, or call her at (757) 427-7032. Go to her web site, http://www.thesykesgrp.com, and signup for her newsletter, OnPoint, and signup for the newsletter, OnPoint, and receive the free ebook, "Empowerment and Stress Secrets for the Busy Professional."

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