In these uncertain times -- aren't you tired of hearing that? Aren't you tired of all the negativity and talking about all the negativity? Is everyone stressed out? Enough!

The truth of the matter is so much of what happens in the world is out of our control. Not having control is a major cause of stress. The Serenity Prayer has a simple but powerful message:

God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change;
courage to change the things I can;
and wisdom to know the difference.

So, now is the time to look at what you do have control over and do something to reduce some of your stress.

Choose to shift from a negative attitude to an attitude of sincere gratitude

• I talk to so many people at work and they are outright busy. When they tell me how busy they are, the tone in their voice sounds negative. I point out that having a job and a job that's keeping them busy is a good thing. The alternative is not so good.

Surround yourself with what makes you smile or laugh

• Aren't there certain people who just put a smile on your face when you talk to them?
  Call them!
  
• Change your screensaver so that it displays a favorite picture, scene,
  memory or event, etc.
  
• Music: For me music is a very important part of my life and has such a strong impact on my mood. I recently stumbled upon www.pandora.com. Pandora is free and allows you to create as many music "stations" as you want by choosing your favorite songs or artists. Your favorite music can play softly in the background as you are working on your computer (as long as it won't disturb co-workers).

Here are some additional stress busters

• Unclutter your work space and your home
  
• Take breaks - walk, stretch, exercise, breathe slowly and deeply
  
• Use positive self-talk toward positive action
  
• Distance yourself from too much negativity - stay as informed as you like but think about the potential toll the media onslaught is having on you
  
• Drink lots of water
  
• If you talk to family, friends, colleagues about your stress, don't just complain; seek out ideas and solutions then take action
  
• Pray or meditate
  
• Make a complete to do list and input your action items into your planner, Microsoft Outlook, Lotus Notes, Blackberry,or PDA, etc. The more you try to remember and keep in your head, the more likely you are to increase your anxiety.

Take inventory: How blessed are you?

• Take a good look around at your life, family, friends, etc. Find the goodness in each day. Do you have a refrigerator, TV, computer, cell phone, too many clothes to choose from in your closet, etc.?

Fortunate? What do you think?

email: mitzi@timefinder.net

phone: 781-444-3220

web: http://www.TimeFinder.net