How to Stop Stressing Out When You Know You’ll Be Stressing Out

“There is nothing to fear but fear itself.”

(This quote is from FDR’s first inaugural address.)

Likewise, there is nothing to stress out about but stress itself. I think that’s a valid argument, isn’t it?

There are certain things that we fear, don’t like, or worry about. By default, when we know that we are going to face those things, we stress out beforehand.

For example, I dislike going to events like product launches and mixers – especially if I know I have to mingle even if only for a little bit. So, if I know that there is such an event that I have to go to, I already stress out a week before – maybe even more.

This is obviously unhealthy, but to be honest, I usually can’t find a way around it. Sometimes I forget, but then it comes back and I start stressing out again. This affects my work, my downtime, and even my sleep (because I just lie there thinking about how stressed I would be).

Why Your Stress Might Be Killing You

The rational person in me knows that it doesn’t have to be the case, but if you’re like me, you know that that rational part doesn’t always win.

So what do we do?

How to stop stressing out

Here’s an infographic tackling the topic of stress, how it affects our brain, and its effects on our lives. More importantly, it offers 7 techniques to help you calm down when you’re stressing out.

Here are the 7 techniques.

Plan ahead. Prepare for scenarios and how you will handle them.
Breathe. We already know how important proper breathing is and how calming it is. So, when you’re stressing out – before or during the event – focus on your breathing.
Exercise. Endorphins!
When you catch yourself thinking of all the worst possible scenarios, STOP. This may seem contrary to the first technique, but there is a slight difference. The first technique is more controlled and focused. You think of probable situations and come up with simple solutions. Once you have those solutions, you move on. Dwelling on “What if?” and “everything will be a disaster” is a totally different thing.
Focus on the positives.
Reject negative self-talk. Be nice to yourself.
Forgive.