How to Make Trouble Less Stressful and Improve Your Life

Last updated on September 3rd, 2017 at 04:36 pm

WomensHealth.gov identifies the most common causes of stress:

• death of a loved one
• divorce
• financial problems
• illness
• marriage (isn’t that interesting?)
• pregnancy (say it aint so!)
• jail
• retirement

Much of the stress associated with these trials of life can be dealt with so that your life is less stressful. But, first you must know that there’s almost always signs. I talk more about this in How Life is Delivered Like the Seasons.

How to Make Tough Times Less Stressful

The cause of the trial you may currently find yourself in is not up for debate. It’s not nearly as important as how you handle the stress caused by the trouble. How you respond to trouble can cause you more stress or your response can improve your quality of life.

In spite of how you feel, you can and you will make it through times. The following 4 tips will help you to do so, resulting in an improved quality of life.

1. Make a list of the problems you are facing. Divide that list into two: small problems and big problems. Look at the list again and determine which problems are within your control to tackle. Then, handle them. For those problems you can’t single handedly solve, don’t be afraid (or too prideful) to get help.
2. Count your blessings. When times are tough, that’s the time to take stock of everything that is good and “stable” in your life. It’s time to take a glance at what could have happened but didn’t because of the grace of God.
3. Pray. As a Christian, I know that there is no better help for troubling times than to turn to the Creator of the Universe. He has the answer for any situation you may face. Going to God in prayer and casting your cares upon Him will improve your quality of life by granting you peace.
4. Take time for yourself. Sometimes the best thing to do after praying and counting your blessings is to  make yourself a priority. Taking time out to pamper yourself may be all you need to gain clearer thinking to tackle your troubles.

Regardless of the trouble you are facing (financial, health, etc.), be encouraged at the fact that trouble don’t last always (there’s a gospel song I love with that name). Tackle your trials using the tips above to reduce the stress associated with it. Your steadfast resolve to make it through is what will bring you through. If that doesn’t encourage you, remember that Summer always comes (read that article about the seasons of life and you’ll understand further).

Share with friends!