De-Compress

Dear Dr. Terri K: I feel like I am in a downward spiral… Over the last couple of months, I’ve watched my investment accounts dwindle which is stressing me out. Because I’m stressed out, I’m eating more. Since I’ve gained weight, I’m more tired than usual. I now fear losing my job. What can I do to get back on track mentally and physically? – PAUL

Paul: First, congratulations for reaching out. When times get tough, it’s time to get tough! Here are some suggestions:

• Start a gratitude journal. There is something going right in your life for which you can be thankful – determine what that is and write it down. Look for the little things such as health and family. Actively seek joy every day. Practice acts of kindness toward others and see how it fills your heart.
• Practice relaxation techniques. When you feel stress creeping up, take a few deep breaths to activate the relaxation response in the body. Take a yoga class. Learn to meditate. Practice the techniques at home with the Power Living® Mini-Escapes relaxation CD. Get your adrenaline flowing by exercising.
• Assess your skills. Take an honest look at your skills. Does your job highlight your strengths? If not, what can you do to emphasize your strong points?
• Set clear goals. If you feel you’ve had a setback, that’s the time to plan for your comeback! Be clear on what you want from your job and from life. Once you can see the vision, set S.M.A.R.T. goals – Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Time-specific.
• Tap into your Circle of Support. Identify those around you who are truly supportive of your life goals. Reach out to them when you need to talk or need advice. See how you can pool resources together to save money.
• Work on your Personal Brand. When economic times are tough, it is even more important to be clear on your own unique value proposition and project the brand that represents you. Take time to outline your personal branding elements.
• Celebrate milestones. Whenever you accomplish anything to move things forward, pat yourself on the back. Be your own cheerleader.

  Today, start living a life that feels right. Keep your life vision in front of you. You can make it happen step-by-step. Start Power Living® today!

  - T

Contributed by Teresa Kay-Aba Kennedy.

Photo credit: Pexels.

Teresa Kay-Aba Kennedy is a Harvard Business School-trained Strategist, Mind-Body Expert, Award-Winning Author, Keynote Speaker and Activist.  She is Founder & CEO of Power Living and creator of Elder Dignity.  Selected as a World Economic Forum Young Global Leader, her mission is to unleash human potential and create a more just and sustainable world.

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