Take control of your stress – Eleanor Roosevelt
Stress is an everyday experience that we all encounter in various forms. It could be work-related, health-related, or even relationship-related. No matter the source, stress can adversely affect our physical and mental health, leading to exhaustion, anxiety, and depression. It’s therefore essential to learn how to manage stress effectively, and there’s no one who can teach us this better than Eleanor Roosevelt.
Eleanor Roosevelt was a remarkable woman who faced numerous challenges throughout her life. She was born into a wealthy family in 1884 but lost her mother and brother at a young age. She married Franklin D. Roosevelt, who went on to become the 32nd president of the United States, but their marriage was fraught with infidelity and emotional turmoil. In addition to her personal struggles, she was also a prominent figure in the public eye, serving as First Lady of the United States, a delegate to the United Nations, and an advocate for human rights. Despite all these challenges, she remained composed and poised, inspiring many people with her resilience and optimism.
One of Eleanor Roosevelt’s most famous quotes is, “No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.” This quote is a testament to her belief in personal responsibility and assertiveness. She encouraged people to take control of their lives and not let others dictate their emotions. This idea is particularly relevant when it comes to stress management. Below are some of Eleanor Roosevelt’s insights on how to take control of stress:
- Recognize your stress triggers
- Don’t compare yourself to others
- Take care of your physical health
- Develop a positive mindset
- Set boundaries
- Practice self-care
Stress can manifest in different ways, such as tension in your muscles, racing thoughts, or difficulty sleeping. It’s essential to understand the situations or people that trigger your stress so that you can be proactive in managing it. For example, if you get stressed when you have a deadline at work, you can take steps to plan ahead and break down the tasks into smaller, manageable chunks. This approach will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and anxious.
Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote about not feeling inferior without your consent applies here as well. Many people feel stressed because they compare themselves to others and feel inadequate. In the age of social media, it’s easy to feel like everyone else has their lives together while you’re struggling. However, this perception is often far from the truth. Nobody has a perfect life, and everyone has their challenges to overcome. Instead of comparing yourself to others, focus on your own goals and achievements, and celebrate them.
Physical health and mental health are closely linked, and taking care of your body can help reduce stress levels. Eleanor Roosevelt was physically active and believed that exercise was essential for overall wellbeing. She enjoyed swimming, horseback riding, and walking, and often encouraged others to incorporate physical activity into their routine. In addition to exercise, make sure you are getting adequate sleep, eating a balanced diet, and taking breaks regularly throughout the day to relax and recharge.
A positive mindset is a powerful tool for reducing stress. Eleanor Roosevelt was known for her optimistic outlook on life, despite facing numerous challenges. She believed that focusing on the good things in life, no matter how small, could help shift your perspective and improve your mood. Practice gratitude by taking time each day to reflect on what you’re thankful for and surrounding yourself with positive people. When you face a difficult situation, try to reframe it in a positive light, focusing on what you can learn and how it can help you grow.
Setting boundaries is crucial when it comes to managing stress. It’s easy to get caught up in other people’s problems or requests, but sometimes you need to say no or limit your involvement. Eleanor Roosevelt was known for setting boundaries with her husband, who had a busy political career. She recognized that she needed to prioritize her own needs and interests, and would take time for herself, such as reading, writing, or attending cultural events. She understood that setting boundaries was not selfish but necessary for her own wellbeing.
Self-care is essential for managing stress and maintaining overall wellbeing. It’s easy to neglect self-care when you have a busy schedule or feel like you don’t have enough time. However, taking time to do things that make you happy, such as reading a book, taking a bath, or listening to music, can help reduce stress levels and improve your mood. Eleanor Roosevelt believed that taking care of yourself was not a luxury but a necessity, and often took time for self-care activities such as gardening, playing with her dog, or spending time in nature.
In conclusion, stress is a common experience that can adversely affect our physical and mental health. However, by taking control of our stress, we can improve our wellbeing and thrive even in challenging circumstances. Eleanor Roosevelt’s insights on stress management offer a timeless and powerful message that is still relevant today. By recognizing our stress triggers, not comparing ourselves to others, taking care of our physical health, developing a positive mindset, setting boundaries, and practicing self-care, we can take control of our stress and lead fulfilling lives. Remember, as Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “You gain strength, courage, and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.” So take control of your stress, and face your fears with courage and confidence.