by Lucinda Davis

Created on: November 28, 2009

If you asked someone these days if they were stressed out it's very likely the response will be "yes". Stress can kill you and many people lack the skills to cope with stress. Yet so many of us face stressful issues on a daily basis. Once you clear up one issue there is always another lurking around the corner.

So how do you live a stress-free life when you are constantly surrounded by stress? Some people turn to medication but you may not need to go that far. Start by making a list of what is stressing you and figure out what the biggest stress is in your life. Most people feel stressed when they feel they are not in control. Making a list will help you to feel more organized and in control.

Once you have that list in hand decide if there are ways to change the things that are causing you stress. For example if the biggest stress in your life is your job then maybe you are in the wrong career. This may be a crossroads for you to take time to find a more suitable career. Finding a job that you love and enjoy can reduce your stress enormously. Some people find taking a pay cut to do something they enjoy has made them much happier.

Maybe you don't like to clean or never have enough time for household chores or yard work. If that's the case it may be cheaper to pay a cleaning lady or yard worker to do these chores rather than paying for doctor visits and medication. You might even find ways to pay for these services if you look close enough at your budget.

I find making a list of everything I need to do in a day helps me feel less stressed on my busy days. As I check off what I've accomplished I feel better about myself and what I've been able to do. Don't worry if you can't complete everything on your list because you can do some of those things another day. Just be sure to do what is most important first.

Get plenty of sleep and take up meditation. Both activities will help you be less stressed. Take time to breathe deeply. If you are at work and need to blow off some steam sometimes taking a few deep breaths will help. Take care of your body. Giving yourself the proper nutrients and exercise will keep stress away.

Vent your problems to a friend. Your friend may not be able to help your situation but they can at least be a shoulder to cry on. Letting out those emotions you've held inside will certainly help you feel better. You can always ask your friends and family for help if you need it. If they can't help you then they may know someone who can.

Simplify your life and you'll find you have less stress. Eliminate the things you don't need in your life. Some quick fixes that might help you relax are watching a comedy, taking a candlelight bath, snuggle up to your loved one or a pet, and getting a massage.

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