Do you ever get stressed? That’s a pretty dumb question because everyone experiences stress. Some people handle stress well, while others suffer with its consequences. As we think more about getting things done, we need to stop and talk honestly about the effect stress has on you and your family.
According to WebMD, more than 75% of visits to physicians are because of stress-related issues. Stress can lead to headaches, high blood pressure, asthma, arthritis, depression, and a whole lot more.
The bottom line is that stress hinders your ability to get things done. Therefore, it affects your mood. Ultimately, it impacts your relationships with those closest to you. So, what’s the solution?
It would be ridiculous to tell you not to be stressed. That’s like telling you not to think about vanilla ice cream. Telling you what not to do can be counterproductive.
The real cure for stress is sticking to a plan.
Maybe you should think about using a strategy a pastor used to lead the church staff. To keep ministers from working too much he told them to divide their awake hours into three equal parts and to only work two parts each day. The third part was reserved for family, recreation, and other similar activities.
You might think you can’t get everything done is that short amount of time. Well, maybe you need to evaluate those things on your to-do list. There probably are some choices you’ve made that aren’t necessary.
If you can say yes, you have the option to say no.
Stress will take years off your life. It also will take the life out of your years. You probably know some people whose daily existence reflects the destructive nature of persistent stress. You don’t have to become one of those people.
What do you want life to be like in six months? How does that image compare to today? What changes are needed for you to make the six month goal a reality? Those are questions we all must deal with on a regular basis.
So, here’s my recommendation—stop right now and block out time on your calendar to date your wife, invest in your kids, and do something other than work. Your family deserves the best you. Don’t less your personal stress keep you from delivering.
Live on purpose,
Aaron Walker
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