A small amount of stress can be motivational, improving performance, resistance and adaptation. Excessive stress, however, grows into many problems and its costs can be dramatic. We should be willing to change otherwise we are unpredictably wearying. We should know that chronically stressed people are prone to risky and compulsive behavior. They substitute desired pleasant feelings by wrong choices, finding pleasure in compensatory behavior, impulsive actions, binge drinking or eating, alcohol and drug abuse or gambling. Chronic stress negatively influences executive functions of the brain, affects cognitive functioning and strengthens dysfunctional thinking patterns.

The longer stress lasts the more difficult it is to change or break wrongful habits. We can learn strategies to cope with and prevent stress. The efficient and long lasting techniques tap into thinking, beliefs, values, mindfulness and acceptance. We can practice weighing the stressors against what’s beneficial to the mind, feelings and body, future and relationships. When we embrace functional thinking we control how we relate to the world, including the stressors. When we maintain a positive attitude towards ourselves we don’t allow stressors to compromise well-being.

A Quick Technique to Reduce Stress

Select a small object that you like a great deal. It might be a jewel or a simple flower. Fix your stare and focus all your attention on this object as you inhale and exhale slowly and deeply. Hold the sight and focus at least for two minutes. While you are doing this exercise try not to let any other thoughts or feelings enter your mind. If they do, just return your attention to the object. At the end of this exercise you should be more calm and relaxed. Any tension or nervousness that you were feeling prior starting the exercise should be diminished. 

When the things seem difficult to cope with; when everything and everyone seem to be against you; when life just seems hard, read this book and remember this simple phrase:
“In the mind and self, be The Strongest You”
Use the strength within you to enjoy life and simply being you. Learn to promote positive thoughts, improve feelings and achieve your full potential.