31/05/2024
"The greatest weapon against stress is our ability to choose one thought over another." – William James
While we may not have control over every external event that happens to us, we can certainly control how we respond. By now, we know that effective is crucial for both our mental and physical (Lazarus & Folkman, 1984), so understanding and implementing constructive strategies can significantly enhance our ability to navigate life's challenges and maintain our overall health.
One effective framework for managing stress is known as the "4 As":
🌟Avoid unnecessary stressors. Learning to say no, taking control of your environment, and distancing yourself from triggering people or situations makes your overall stress load more manageable and decreases cortisol levels (Sapolsky, 2004). However, note that avoiding stress doesn't mean avoiding life. For example, if traffic makes you anxious, consider taking a less congested detour or traveling at off-peak hours (not staying home altogether).
🌟Alter the situation. This might involve managing your time better, respectfully expressing your suggestions, and communicating your feelings openly. For instance, prioritizing and delegating tasks combined with effective time management can reduce stress and increase productivity (Macan et al., 1990).
🌟Accept what is unavoidable. Techniques such as mindfulness and cognitive restructuring can help us accept and deal with external circumstances more effectively (Hayes et al., 2006). For example, accepting the death of a loved one involves acknowledging your feelings and finding healthy ways to express grief.
🌟Adapt from within. Adjusting your standards and expectations, reframing problems, and focusing on the positive aspects of any given situation can enhance resilience and improve coping abilities (Bonanno, 2004). For instance, viewing a challenging task as a learning experience rather than a threat can make it feel less stressful.
Which of the 4 As do you practice most often? Let us know below!
![[FREE] eBook: Four Golden Rules for Safe Psychedelic Use http://bit.ly/3xMyksa](https://img5.medioq.com/296/556/462991152965562.jpg)
