10 habits that will help keep even the busiest people healthy and sane



Habit #1

Take 40 deep, slow breaths, from your diaphragm, one or two at a time, spread throughout your day. Don't try to make up for ones you didn't do earlier; if you do too many at one time, you can hyperventilate. Rather, associate it with a regular occurrence, such as the telephone ringing, traffic noise, or a glance at the clock. See for yourself how effective this practice can be.

Habit #2

Set aside fifteen- or twenty-minute relaxation periods away from your phone and from any other kind of interruption. You can use breaks at work for this. A tape or CD can assist in developing relaxation skills. Rather than trying to maximize your efficiency by using every available minute to get things accomplished, you'll find that you actually get more (and better) work done by taking time out to release internalized stress. You'll see results in about four to six weeks.

Habit #3

Regular aerobic exercise โ€” walking, jogging, swimming, biking, etc. โ€” for just twenty minutes three times a week improves your ability to handle stress. Even more than that is better still, but be careful against injuries!

Habit #4

Remember: all things in moderation. Consider what you eat and drink, and choose sensibly. Don't use caffeine, alcohol or other drugs to cope with stress. They undermine your body's ability to defend against (and recover from) the effects of stress.

Habit #5

Set goals for growth in all aspects of your life. Plan to give yourself positive options. People assume that more money will solve all of their problems, but you should plan for growth in all aspects of your life, not just income. This includes family and relationships, spiritual interests, creative pursuits, even vacations and hobbies - all of the things that nourish your sense of well-being!

Habit #6

Use humor to keep a positive, lower-stress outlook. Positive attitudes really do help you see opportunities instead of difficulties. Don't use it to mask anger, fear, or sadness though.

Habit #7

Stay positive and centered by avoiding people who try to drain your positive energy. Negative relationships with 'friends' or co-workers can quickly erode your peace of mind.

Habit #8

Understand what you can control and what you cannot, and don't try to direct events you cannot control. Try to be prepared. Know that in any situation, you can always control how you respond.

Habit #9

Give compliments sincerely and generously. Smile. Be positive and let it influence others. Your positive attitude will come back many times more.

Habit #10

Listening is the most important communication skill you can develop. True listening both empowers and relaxes.

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