Stress
Lunch
Lunch, lunch, lunch. You arrive without fail everyday!
Lunchtime
Today’s lunch included a BBQ pulled chicken sandwich, served with grape tomatoes and carrot slices.
BBQ Pulled Chicken
BBQ a day later is oh-so-good!
Now, about today…
I wish I could sugarcoat things on the blog, but to be 100 percent honest, today has been a bit of a mess. Ever since I sat down at my desk this morning, things have been go-go-go and extremely stressful at work. I’m trying to stay positive and remember that there’s sunshine after every storm. Let’s just get through the day! 
Before accepting my current job, I worked as the marketing manager for a large company. It was a job that left me feeling unbelievably stressed. I had no work/life balance and work was always on my mind. I actually took a significant pay cut to accept my current job and have never looked back.
I know that stress in any job is natural and today’s stresses will absolve and improve, but I found myself falling back on my go-to stress relieving method that I would use nearly every day at my old job about halfway through the morning.
My stress-relieving method of choice? Getting lost in music.
In my previous job, when I was handed a bazillion different tasks to complete in an unreasonable timeframe, I would make a list, tackle each task one by one and turn on happy music.
It was hard to feel too stressed when the music from “Mama Mia!” or “Legally Blonde: The Musical” was blaring in my ears!
After listening to my favorite Pandora station for a good hour and plugging away at today’s tasks, I felt much better.
I am anxiously awaiting this evening’s walk with Ryan and Sadie. Simply strolling in the sunlight sounds absolutely perfect right now!
Question of the Afternoon
- What are your tips for relieving stress?
- Is there a lot of stress in your life right now?
Aside from music, my number one trick for alleviating stress is to ask myself this question: “Will this matter in a week? In a month? In a year?” Most of the time the answer is no and it’s not worth wasting time worrying about it… especially since worry does nothing to improve a situation. (Actions do!)
Filed under: Lunch
so sorry to hear things are tough thanks for sharing.
right now I’m not too too stressed but I definitely have been. exercise and time with my pup and family is best for me
good luck!
Jenny @ Fitness Health and Food
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:51 pm
yes! dogs are the BEST stress relievers. sadie always makes me feel better.
peanutbutterfingers
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I suppose “Klonopin” is not an acceptable answer…
Victoria (District Chocoholic)
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My semester is over in 2.5 weeks, and I have so much to do! i am trying to just do a lot of work without really thinking about it.
Hope your day gets better!
Jess@atasteofconfidence
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Sorry things are so stressful! Usually I turn to music to calm me down, but right now, music is what is STRESSING me out! I have my vocal juries (basically like a final performance exam for music majors) next Wednesday and I have to learn 7 songs by then! Ahhh!
Katy (The Singing Runner)
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Kaitlyn @ 7 Plates Reply:
April 13th, 2011 at 9:40 am
I’m a music major too and my piano recital is TOMORROW! Stress. I can totally relate!
Kaitlyn @ 7 Plates
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Hope things get a bit less stressful as the day goes on
& I love how positive you are Julie…that is why I ALWAYS love reading- always brings a smile to my face, even when you are having a rough day!
Holly
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great post girly. I am one of those people who can get stressed out super easily…so I always try to just write things down so I don’t have to worry about if I’m going to forget to do something. I find that helps me a lot! Also, if you are interested in some upbeat, fun music (probably better suited for working out than working) then you can go to this website and download this female dj’s songs…they’re all about an hour long and just a great mix of fun upbeat music! No worries, your stress will be gone soon! http://soundcloud.com/dj-lindsay-luv
Bess @ Bess Be Fit
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:52 pm
awesome, thank you!
peanutbutterfingers
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Wow. This post explains me to a T! I’m an Auditor for a large public accounting firm, and I’m feeling the stress right now! I take work home with me every night, and work weekends. There is never work / life balance even after April 15th (18th this year). Pray I find something new soon! I’m willing to take the pay cut, just like you did! To get me through today, I have Backstreet Boys Station on Pandora. Love it!
Jessica
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My stress relief = working out.
Ankle sprain = can’t work out.
Stress level = SUPER HIGH.
=(
Claire @ Live and Love to Eat
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:52 pm
aw, i hope your ankle heals fast!
peanutbutterfingers
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Thanks for the tips- those are some great ways to decrease stress! When I’m
stressed, I try to either get outside if it’s a nice day or I try to think ab all the wonderful ppl in my life or fun events/trips I have coming up! Working out always helps too:) I have to do this every day being in school or on rotations!! Hope the stress goes away- enjoy your walk later!
Karina
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When I worked a full time desk job I often turned to Pandora…and funny enough I always would put in Mama Mia for my station too!! When I am stressed a good workout or a call to my Mama is what does the trick. Sometimes talking it out with Mom is the best way to go!
Chelsea J
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:53 pm
i always miss my mom when i’m stressed. she’s so soothing!
peanutbutterfingers
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Aww Julie feel better soon! Only a few hours before dinner and Sadie time! Whenever I’m stressed, pets and babies always make me feel better.
Studying for my medical board exams ( the ones you do before they let you become a real doctor) so kinda stressed I guess although I got about a month to go before I do the exam.
primrose
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PBF,
When you say you had “no work / life balance” can you elaborate a little more? How many hours were you working per week? What was your daily schedule like?
thanks.
Kathryn
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Sorry to hear you’re stressed.
It sounds like you know how to deal with it though, and I bet you’ll be feeling back to normal after a walk with Ryan and Sadie!
I also make lists when I’m feeling stressed. Even if I can’t cross everything off in a day, it makes me feel better to know that I won’t forget something once it’s written down. Music definitely helps also, and I always feel better after talking to my boyfriend. He helps me to realize what is actually important and what isn’t worth worrying about!
Katy @ A Healthy Shot of Life
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i’m pretty regularly stressed due to the nature of my job (i’m a finance attny), having to get up at 5:45 to get to work, my 6 figures of loans from undergrad and law school hanging over my head and other myriad bills, and trying not to compare where *i am* in life (27, not married) to where others are.
how I relieve stress:
* i put it in perspective. not only do i think about if this will matter in a year, i think about the bigger things that i’ve overcome (death of one parent, bar exam [2 weeks apart], significant illness of another, etc.) and how, if i could handle THAT, i could handle this.
* i try to remind myself that you’re not given more than you can handle. You can choose who the “giver” is in the scenario – your boss who hired you based on your proven ability to do a job, your family, G-d, etc.
* i blog. my blog is personal and not really healthy living, but it sure is cathartic.
* i get lost in the music on my treadmill. or just sing in my room.
* i cuddle with my pup. i even recently stuck a tiny picture of my dog as a pup up in my cube because it really does relax me.
you’re so right about making lists and that definitely helps to put things into perspective. how many tasks are there? how many are actually quick and not terribly time consuming? which is hardest? will take longest? do i most dislike doing/should do first? what has to be done right now, and what can sit on the shelf for a little while? it makes it all feel much more realistic and doable. then again, i also called my mom crying last week and felt better 10 minutes later… there’s always that
Dana
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Jihane @Sinful Sundays Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 3:34 pm
Wow- i hope you know just how awesome you are—just reading that tiny blurb about you shows the level of strength that you have inside. Marriage will come when it comes–nothing before its time
Jihane @Sinful Sundays
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Amy M Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:39 pm
Dana, you are amazing! You are articulate, accomplished, and obviously very strong. It is amazing (and wonderful) to read that so many of the women who have left comments are able to manage thier stress well, but I do not find myself in that category. I do think one of the reasons I get so stressed may be that I hold myself to very high standards and do not take it very easy on myself when I fall short of a goal. Do you feel the same way?
PS – I am also 27 and unmarried. I recently read an artcle that said that we are actually in the majority of 20 somethings! More and more young women of our generation are waiting to marry.
Amy M
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:55 pm
these are amazing tips and you’re clearly an amazing woman with a lot to offer and a lot of life lessons already learned. i actually read your comment while i was at work, and you reminded me to look at the goofy picture i have on my desk of sadie. i felt instantly better and i thank YOU for that!
peanutbutterfingers
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I love doing Yoga when I am stressed even if it is simply puttin in a yoga dvd at home and practicing by myself or going and taking a class, it usually puts me in a more relaxed place.
Kimberley
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Julie, I am crazy stressed out right now too — you have my total empathy! Actually, the only thing getting me through my current crazy situation is that I *know* it won’t matter in a few months! It’s just the getting through it part that stinks. Thanks for the mid-day cheer up!
Laura @ prettylittlewords
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What a timely post! I JUST attended a workshop yesterday at my faculty meeting about generating positive emotions from stressful situations. The research overwhelmingly shows that we CAN generate positive emotions from stressful situations by focusing on some of the following techniques:
–positive appraisal: frame the situation in a positive way and focus on the positive
–mindfulness: being present with our situations and fully experiencing them
–gratitude: keeping a gratitude journal or otherwise expressing gratitude in stressful times
–amplifying our strengths: focusing both internally and externally on what we’re best at, rather than spending time worrying about the negative
The presentation was done by the folks at UCSF Osher Center for Integrative Medicine in San Francisco (http://www.osher.ucsf.edu/index.html) and they have lots of information online about generating positive emotions from stress! Hang in there and thanks for sharing!
Gavi @ Gavi Gets Going!
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:56 pm
you’re right! that was very timely! thank you, gavi!
peanutbutterfingers
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Omg I just blogged about trying to find a work-life balance. It’s hard sometimes. Hang in there!
kristy @ kristyruns
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my stress relief? working out, shopping, or crafting
i actually did post about “de-stressing” not too long ago…check it out if you have time:
http://fashionablyfitfemme.blogspot.com/2011/03/de-stressing.html
NikiB
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Running is totally my stress relief! Funny though is the fact that having music in my ears makes me more on edge, so I run in silence… a lot
LeeAnn
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Stress can be so tough to get through when you’re in the moment. Going for walks are usually my relief, getting my body moving and just having time to think outside seems to work better than being indoors. I don’t have too much stress in my life right now, so knock on wood it remains that way!
gabriella @ embracement
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Stress…ohhhh yes. Definitely tipping the charts lately with my stress levels, but I try my best to try to find the positives in each and every day. I try to remind myself that there’s always something that could be worse and that I’ll get through it.
And if that doesn’t work? I bake.
Courtney @ Sweet Tooth, Sweet Life
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:57 pm
YES! i’m a stress baker, too!
peanutbutterfingers
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Sometimes I think you’re in my brain because I feel a certain way, then I click on your blog and you’re writing about it! Sure, I have stress, and truth be told – I’m not the best at handling it. I can turn into a real ugly girl real fast – and I take it out on the ones I’m closest with. What’s that all about!? But this morning when I was stressing about grad school + my job + wedding planning I took a step back a focused on the GOOD things that I have going on in my life. Sometimes it’s easy to ignore those things. Maybe that’s one reason I’m working my ass off to become a therapist. I’ll let you know when I figure out all these answers haha
Colleen @ The Lunchbox Diaries
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I, too, took a LARGE paycut just so I could move to a job where I was happier (remember my comment a few days ago about the gross boss and having to count manholes?!). Thank goodness this new job has me looking forward to work every day now, but there are definitely still days when things seem overwhelming.
You touched on this in your post, but I think one of the best things to do to de-stress is make a list and tackle things one at a time. Seeing what you have to do and how you’re going to get everything done makes it seem more manageable. The other thing I do is tell myself that I know in the past I’ve had just as much, if not more work (think finals in college!) and somehow I know I always get it done…i.e. you know you’re fully capable of doing it! That, and a nice cup of tea and some deep breathing always seems to help
Amy B
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Music and deep breathing or stretching always helps me. You can do it girl!! Thanks for keeping it real
and best of luck today!
Annette @ EnjoyYourHealthyLife
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I am frequently, extremely stressed. Between work, my blog, and hosting gigs on the side, I seem to be constantly busy. Honestly, reading your blog is one of the ways I take my mind off my busy schedule
Whitney English “To Live and Diet in L.A.”
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Bubble baths and long walks! They always make me feel better!
Or even just having dinner outside on my patio instead of at hte table makes a difference!
Becca
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Thanks for this fabulous, and oh-so-well-timed reminder Julie. I’ve been feeling the exact same way lately and this afternoon, you can bet I’ll be blaring some music into my ears! I’m thinking a little Jack Johnson at the moment! I am also thinking about going for a walk after work or after dinner tonight to unload my head of all of the work stress. Again, thanks for the reminder!
I hope you have a good afternoon!
Angela @ Eat Spin Run Repeat
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:58 pm
you, too! i feel ya, angela!
peanutbutterfingers
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Ugh, sorry you’re having a stressful day, but did you seriously apologize for being stressed out? O_o
As for me, I’m pretty stressed at the moment. I’m:
1. trying to find a job (failing at that at the moment);
2. revamp my resume;
3. working at widening my online fingerprint to show off how awesome I am (refer back to reason #1 for this);
4. finish applications for a possible second stint at grad school;
5. edit an old essay for reason #4 (which requires me figuring out what my addled argument was);
6. eat healthy and exercise everyday to stay energetic;
That’s a lot! I tend to react to stress by getting practical, though sometimes my practicality’s a bit wonky. I prioritize, make lists, and try to get stuff done. Sometimes I leave the hard stuff for last so I can feel a sense of accomplishment early, other times I tackle them first to get them over with.
What helps out most, though, is ALWAYS scheduling time to do something indulgent. Reading a book, watching a tv show I love, anything so I can feel I did something for ME today. Otherwise, I get burned out real easy.
When I’m stressed beyond belief I burst into tears, but I try not to let it get that far for obvious reasons. Crying = soggy = bad for books.
Diana
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My job sounds like your old job, most of the time. There is down time, but I wake up thinking about the things I have to do, everyday! I even try to tackle how I am going to manage it while I am running on the treadmill, lol.. We recently were told not to use headphones in the workplace, which squashed my Pandora days. I went and got myself a pair of small speaker to keep my Robyn Pandora station on low-couldn’t make it through without it. In general, music and working out relieve my stress. I always have a bad day when I decide not to work out (for lazy reasons, not counting if I am sick or something)..but I have been going 6 days a week lately which keeps me sane!
Jillian
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I do the exact same thing! I am currently pumping music at work! Much needed. Also, I take little breaks to read or do something little for myself. It’s a great pause button.
Laura @ Scribbles and Sass
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Hang in there, Julie! Work stress is never fun. I hate having work stuff hang over my head when I get home. There is an end in sight and thank goodness for Pandora!
Lauren @ Sassy Molassy
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My life is packed with stress right now…but things should calm down a bit after I finish my final paper for school this week. Gah!
Heather
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Work is stressful, no matter what the job is, in my mind. I have recently been stressed at my job because I just got a promotion (YAY!) but it’s been really stressful trying to learn everything and not look like an idiot while doing it. It’s like i’m back in college again! However, if you talk to my boyfriend, he will say he is stressed because he doesn’t like what he is doing and has a few new job opportunities and is stressing over the right decision, praying that whichever job God has picked out for him will be easy to see. So… it goes both ways! Lately, i’ve been getting lost in music too! I listen to my favorite pandora station, the family disney station, and that always brightens my mood and I find myself resisting the urge to dance to hakauna mattata in my cube
Enjoy your evening walk… you are so right, it’s not going to matter in a week, a month or a year. The things that will matter, family, pets, etc are there for you when you need them!! And hey, if you and Ryan ever want to move to Austin… just let me know!!
Stephanie @ LiveCookLove
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:59 pm
so exciting about your promotion!!!
peanutbutterfingers
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I worked for a magazine last year when I lived on the east coast. After about 8 months, I quit and volunteered for a non-profit organization. The stress was making me unhappy and affecting my life in a negative way. It just wasn’t worth the money. I’m glad you have a positive outlet for your stress!
Courtney @ The Granola Chronicles
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 6:00 pm
i’m so glad i learned that lesson early in life! some jobs truly just aren’t worth the money.
peanutbutterfingers
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Excercise is my de-stresser because it’s one of the only things I can’t multi-task during. Music does help me concentrate on getting things done though, so I bet that’s why music helps you.
I once told my husband I was stressed and he told me I’m never NOT stressed.
So true. I can’t even watch TV without thinking of my to-do list or cleaning something during a commerical.
Paula @ Eat: Watch: Run
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Read blogs lol! (like I’m doing right now…)
Stefanie-Anne
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Ah! I love love love the quote “will it matter in a year”… I think of it all the time when I am stressing over something silly. I take a bing breathe and think about how important the thing I am stressing about it and that I remind myself that I can only be my best.
Ashley P. @ The Vegetable Life
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My job is rife with stress lately and really straining my work life balance. To keep the stress in check I will head outdoors for a bit or go grab a midday latte.
Shanna
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Wow, I really love the third necklace!!
Jessie
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i’ve been a huge stress mess lately. my go-to stress buster is running. followed by a very tall glass of wine.
Emily
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I hear ya on the work/life balance – my job is a bit stressful since it’s a small company and everything lately is coming may way. If I don’t end up doing it today it’s something I have to do tomorrow. I’m also in the process of trying to get a domestic partnership to live with my Aussie boyfriend in Australia (he’s there now) and it’s stressing me out more!
Best ways to alleviate stress for me is to zone out to music, catch up on great blogs (like yours!), set fun dates with friends, treat myself to lunch somewhere I enjoy and to go to the gym. Hope things start to clear up for you, take it one day at a time.
Danielle
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I love your idea of listening to music when stressed, that sounds amazing. I hope your walk this evening makes you feel even better and less stressed! Hang in there!
I go through phases with stress at work…for the most part, I don’t take it home with me and I have a job where I’m able to do that. But there are certainly times when it can add extra stress. I take it a day at a time and try to look at the bigger picture of life and that usually helps! Work is just a fraction of everything we experience.
Lindsey @ Cardio Pizza
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I get wicked stressful at work too. There are days where the phones are ringing off the hook, guests are at the desk in long lines and they all want about 10 minutes of our time. It gets crazy. I love to go out into the square to unwind during my break. And I definitely agree that music helps. That and a nice cup of tea.
Alaina
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Sorry you’re stressed today!! But I love your attitude and your ability to see it for what it is. Big hugs Julie!
Kelly
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I did the same thing it seems you did- I left my over-worked uber stressful job for one that allows me that same work/life balance I wanted- it came with a pay cut, but I am SO much happier.
Any time I get stressed at work or in life I remember how stressed I was constantly in my last job and how it spilled over into every aspect of my life. Even when I am stressed now, I know it will never compare to how awful it was then.
Stephanie
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I used to work in a law firm and I was an assistant for a solo practitioner so I was always stressed. I would have lists upon lists of things he needed done every day and I would just crank up the iPod and do whatever I could. I’m a stay at home mom now and my stress relief is doing a kick butt workout at the end of the day.
Jen
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funn you say this because today was quite stressful for me too- i felt like i was going non-stop!! i came home to find 100000 emails and tweets and i was like WOAH!.. usually i wind down with a tv show.. its puts me at ease!
Carrie
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Hang in there, doll! I hate stressful days!
Running is my stress relief. There was a point last year when it was the ONLY thing that made me feel better. I ran far and often until it took the edge off.
I also like to write about the things that are stressing me out. Last night I couldn’t sleep, so I got up and wrote about what was on my mind. It helped me get my thoughts out and figure out what I want to do about the situation that was keeping me up.
Deep breaths help, too. And I really like your question mantra. I’ll have to start doing that more.
Melissa
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This is the most stressful week of my life right now. I have a portfolio review on Thursday which will determine my degree. I’ve been working 4 years towards a Graphic Communications major but if I don’t get accepted into the program based on my portfolio review on Thursday, I won’t be getting that degree. I’m trying to tell myself that as long as I try my best, it will be ok…but I kind of want to vomit from the stress.
How do I deal with it? I either eat a cupcake or go to my parents house to hang out with my family. Or I go to my sister’s house and play with my 7 month old nephew. Unfortunately, no more breaks for me until after the review!
Lindsay
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Cheer up, Julie! You can do it!
Rika
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Julie,
You are I must be on the same wavelength! I am SO stressed that I actually had to LEAVE today! I am a graduate student getting my degree in counseling out in Illinois, and also work at the college I attend in the advising/dean’s office on TOP of going to graduate school. Needless to say…I am in that building 12 hours a day sometimes. Today was RARE because I slept in and did not get my workout in, my blender BROKE (tear…but I may get a Vitamix now…), my pants button came off, and my entire lunch went bad because I didn’t put it in the fridge (another brain fart)…so I came home, plan on working from my couch and pressing the re-do button!
Claire
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Your meals are always so healthy, you have all my admiration! Tell me you eat a little chocolate all the same…
Well, I see what you mean concerning stress!
I’m an English teacher in France and I work in a tough school. I’ve learned, after some time, to put things into perspective and to protect myself. But what helps me is sport (I run a lot), dancing, cooking, reading girl magazines, painting etc. Doing thinks that I enjoy and thinking of something else. It’s a hard job, putting barriers between your job life and yourself but it’s worth it!
Gen
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I work a stressful job in TV and also commute 3-4 hours a day- which really gets me! I try to walk for around an hour on my way home, I find nothing relaxes me more!
Gillian Young
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 6:06 pm
oh that is QUITE the commute! i love your walking routine. that sounds like the perfect destressor.
peanutbutterfingers
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I know exactly how you feel! I also used to have an incredibly stressful job with no work/life balance, and I too chose to take a big pay cut for a job where I could actually have a life. It was so worth it! When things do get stressful though, I either plug in my headphones and listen to the Jack Johnson station on Pandora, or I do a little office meditation. My manager is a big believer in meditation to relieve stress, and he gave me the book “8 Minute Meditation” – it’s basically just 8 minutes of slow breathing in a quiet room. If things get crazy, I go into a breakout room by myself and do my breathing for 8 minutes. I come back refreshed and calm every time! I highly recommend the book
Melissa
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I deal with stress by reading. I just escape into another world and when I come back to my reality I feel calmer and am able to deal with it.
At work–I just leave my office and go for a walk after I’m done with a task that needs to be done rightthisminute. I’m out of there…
Jihane @Sinful Sundays
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Totally having one of those days too! I also love to just put on some music and plug away. Otherwise, if possible, I take a 10 minute break to walk outside to Starbucks to get some air and an iced green tea. That instantly calms me down and helps me recharge!
Jessica @brighteyesandbushytales
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Totally having one of those days too! I also love to just put on some music and plug away. Otherwise, if possible, I take a 10 minute break to walk outside to Starbucks to get some air and an iced green tea. That instantly calms me down and helps me recharge!
Jessica @brighteyesandbushytales
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Music is my stress relief, too. When I have too much going on, sometimes I turn on music, lie on the bed and just relax. I also love your last paragraph! Right now I’m not under a lot of stress, but my stress-handling might be put on a test in about a month when my big exams start.
Jessy
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Sorry to hear about your stressful day! I totally understand..I am beyond stressed lately! My husband is deploying next week, our first deployment and we got only a weeks notice :/ There is so much to do to get things ready before he leaves along with the overwhelming emotions that have come along with it.
Taking the day minute by minute OR second by second when I get truly overwhelmed & LOTS of music are helping. Also, trying to remember that no matter what, somewhere someone is having the worst day of their life, and I need to keep my problems in perspective helps too.
Heather S
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OMG- I love Legally Blonde the Musical! Did you watch the Search for the next Elle Woods that was on a few years ago? I loved it! I want to see that one on Broadway so badly!
Robyn
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My job has extremely stressful days. Whenever this happens I take a walk on my lunch break. Even if I only have 10 minutes, fresh air and few songs on my ipod and I feel myself coming back down to earth a bit. It’s the only thing I’ve found that works.
PS: I have tried peanut butter fingers from my emergency peanut butter jar I keep in my desk, but with the frequency of stressful days I have I had to find some other way to cope
Sara
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Ugh…stress sucks!
I love jamming to music, too — I blast it as loud as I can an even dance a little in my seat!
I’ve learned to take walks during my lunch break…even short ones help. Then there are a few go-to websites that always make me laugh.
In the end, I just remind myself that tomorrow is another day. And if tomorrow looks just as bleak, I take a serious calculation of what can GO in my life.
Sounds like we need another dinner chat!
Katy
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Walks, talks with friends and THIS book! I carry this book and read the highlights I made in it whenever I get stressed!
http://scatterbrainjane.com/2011/04/09/pay-it-forward-giveaway/
Hope your day is getting better!!!
caitlin
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I just left a VERY stressful job with no work/life balance so I can totally identify with you on how that feels. It was a very negative environment & everyone would throw one another under the bus to get ahead. I made the decision to walk away without having another job lined up – it was that bad. So now being unemployed adds another kind of stress – but luckily my husband was very supportive and I had also saved up a good bit of $$ so we are ok financially. I just don’t want to drain my savings.
I find that doing something that needs my full attention is a good stress reliever.. for me that is playing the piano. I am not very good, so I need to read the music and remember where to put my hands so my mind is so busy with that stuff that it doesn’t have a chance to wander to the things that are bothering me.
Lin
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Definitely appreciate reading this post. It’s so easy to tell yourself that you are overwhelmed and stressed out but DOING something about it is what helps.
I’m a Pandora fan too, and I love browsing foodie blogs when I need a break from schoolwork
Have a wonderful Tuesday!
Nina @ SLO Foodie
Nina (SLO Foodie)
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Oh I understand the stress of a marketing manager since I am one! One word for you….woof. haha
My stress relief (like for many others) is cooking- the act of chopping is therapeutic
, running or going for a long walk. I have not been sleeping because of work stress and it is totally not worth it.
Deep breaths
My mantra on stressful days….smile, breathe deep and go slowly.
Shannon @ A Pinch of Ginger
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 6:05 pm
my heart goes out to you! working as a marketing manager is NO JOKE!
peanutbutterfingers
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Your last sentence ‘especially since worry does nothing to improve a situation. (Actions do!)’ is what I really need to remind myself more. I always get into this cycle of thinking that stress will motivate me to take action, but it doesn’t usually work that way. Instead of worrying about something, I need to just do it. Thanks for putting my thoughts into words!
When I have a super long to do list, I try to remind myself that it WILL all get done. I just have to trust myself. And at the end of a long stressful day, I like to just relax at home or go for a long walk or motorcycle ride if it’s nice out.
Karen
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 6:04 pm
me too! as a worrier, i tell myself that A LOT.
peanutbutterfingers
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Sometimes it’s freaky how much we are on the same page.. my job requires a little bit of travel. The odd time I’m away for a night, or a few days for work. Well, lately I’ve been spending a LOT of time on the road. In fact, I’ve been away from home since April 1st. The worst part is, I had no notice and have been living in a hotel with none of my “things.” I’ve had to buy work clothes everynight (they’re paid for..but still) and have been eating out every meal (which I get sick of quick.) I’m on “flood watch” in a community and, since we don’t know when it’ll get better/worse” I basicaly find out I’m heading home at 8 o’clock at night. Of course, I haven’t been. So I’m checking out of the hotel, driving around with my work stuff getting stories all day, feeding the stories on a very tight deadline and then getting the call to stay again and checking in to the hotel again and repeating every day. I’ve felt very stressed lately. Working out is usually how I relieve my stress; however, since I don’t have any of my “stuff” I just picked up a Walmart swim suit and started hitting the pool late at night, which is helping. I should try music– that usually helps. I’ll have to see what this city has for radio stations since I don’t have my computer with me. Thanks for posting this Julie ..back to work (and another 14 hour day.. eeek!)
Kaella
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Oh my gosh so crazy that you posted this, I felt like it was totally meant for me
) . I am so sorry to hear about your stressful day I completely understand!! I am incredibly stressed out in life right now. My husband is a realtor and things have been going great in our area even when the market turned bad but recently within the past month or so many deals have been falling through, and he is our primary money maka!! We have 4 children + 2 dogs, and right now we are barely making it. I work too but my paycheck doesn’t cover everything so we are super tight and seriously considering making some big changes!! It’s a scary stressful time right now but we are a team and we can make it through anything!! To deal with my stress I like workout and cook/bake. I can completely zone out while workin it out or cookin/bakin up a storm and it takes my mind off what’s going on around me. Just today I made homemade cinnamon rolls and pizza dough so we could have homemade pizzas for dinner tonight.
I hope things get better for you!!
Sherry F
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 6:03 pm
aw, sherry, i feel for you! it sounds like you and your husband are a great unit though and will overcome any obstacles. best of luck to your family!
peanutbutterfingers
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Where do I start? Seems like today is stress filled for a lot of us. I started off just about flying off the handle this morning. Sometimes I catch myself before that happens and can prevent it, usually by asking myself will acting on my anger and frustration really help in the end. My work/life balance is out of whack right now so I understand where it’s coming from and being more mindful helps.
Deep breaths, going for a run and being more forgiving of myself are all helpful. It’s always a relief to hear that you’re not the only one too! Strength and relief in numbers.
Amelia
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I definitely hear you. My post today is titled…how do you eat an elephant. The answer is one bite at a time. The last 3 weeks of the semester are so unbelievably stressful. I can’t wait for my summer vacation.
Shannon
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Watch this video, trust me it’ll put you in a good mood
Christie
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Listen to Hanson’s new song, Give a Little. It’s awesome; I’ve had it on repeat for a week. AND I included it in last thursday’s blog post. Trust me, you won’t regret it… even if it is by Hanson.
(Why no, I do not have any shame).
Alyssa @ Life of bLyss
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My aunt always used to ask me those same questions! “Will it matter 5 years from now?” I used to get so angry when she would ask me that, but now I ask those same questions to other people when they’re stressed!
Really puts things in perspective!
Tanya
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I am right there with you on the stress factors! Im in college and i have 5 exams and 3 quizzes in the next two weeks!
I’m sorry to hear your stressed, but I totally agree with you in how you have to think that this won’t matter in a short period. Keep your head up girl, it will all work out
p.s. Music is amazing at stress relieving!
Gina G
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Yes we have stress — Jason lost his job last week so things are stressful and kind of crazy. Honestly I just focus on my breathing — in and out. Deep breaths really help me and I do them quite a bit at work when I’m feeling overwhelmed.
Holly @ The Runny Egg
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This is an awesome post! This entire year has been unbelievably stressful and overwhelming. From both of my parents dealing with potentially having cancer (only one has it and it’s very treatable), work boredom (because that can be stressful in and of itself), putting our condo up for sale (making sure it’s always clean, finding somewhere to go when they show it to potential buyers), going back to school for fun, and then trying to find a place to live once the condo does sell – I definitely feel overwhelmed A LOT.
I do yoga daily. I almost have to in order to get through this year!
You’re absolutely right, though. There is always a light at the end of the tunnel. 
Katie
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Music is definitely my favorite stress escape, but I get extreme satisfaction from striking a line through items on a list. I love the relief of having one more thing done. Something else that works for me is thinking back on a time when I was really stressed and how good it felt once to be done!
Mandi Langton
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music definitely helps!!! hope you’re feeling better soon!
Gen
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When I’m stressed, I like lists. Lots of lists. Little lists and big lists. it lays it all out in front of me and makes everything seem more manageable.
Christine @ Merf In Progress
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1stly, let me just say I am so glad I found you! I think I stumbled upon you from LoveVeggiesYoga (my other favorite blog!) so I’m definitely glad that happened
2ndly, I love that you have a Vizsla; that’s the kind of pup I plan to get when we get our first doggy! 
Anyways …
1) What are your tips for relieving stress? I agree with you for sure that music is so soothing. I have a few “go-to” songs that really just ease my mind and help fade my anxiety/stress (i.e., “Fix You” by Coldplay … something about that jam just makes me know everything’s going to be okay!) I hope tomorrow is a better day for you!!!
2) Is there a lot of stress in your life right now? YES! I moved to Omaha (from Chicago) a few months ago so not only am I adjusting to a new environment, new job (after 5 months of job-hunting) as well as wedding planning for my out-of-state wedding (it’ll be in Ohio, my hometown). I’ve got a lot going on … I try to remind myself how blessed I am and not let little things get to me! I know everything will work out in the end
Caroline
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 6:02 pm
if you like coldplay’s version of “fix you,” you HAVE to listen to straight no chaser’s version of the song. you will LOVE it!!!
peanutbutterfingers
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I’d choose necklace #1!
Lara
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I am super stressed today too! I try to get organized and tackle my To Do list one at a time to keep a handle on it.
Runeatrepeat
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I’m currently in my last month of graduate school, and between 2 jobs and being the President of the Graduate Business Students, I feel like I’m running around with a chicken with my head cut off! Not to mention my boyfriend and I are having a difference of opinion on which direction our lives should go, and its difficult when there is a rift between your partner and best friend, so some days the stress is so bad I feel like I should just give up and stay in bed.
In order to deal with this stress I do a couple different things- and none of them include staying in bed all day. First- fake smiling. Fake it til you make it!! My other peice of advice is work out until your body hurts worse than your brain!! And lastly- a page from the mother’s guilt trip book “there’s starving children in Africa that definitely have it worse than you” -which was always followed by “so eat your vegetables!”
If none of that works… red wine… lots of red wine…
Brittany
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Ali @SeeAliEatSeeAliRun Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 5:34 pm
I second the red wine!!
Ali @SeeAliEatSeeAliRun
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1) When I get stressed I try and make a list of things to accomplish. I also use this 10 10 10 rule and think about is this going to matter in 10 minutes, 10 hours, 10 days…and on and on? And if not…I try to relax!
2) I have quite a bit of stress in my life right now just because finals are quickly approaching and the semester is coming to an end so I have a bunch of papers due and all that fun jazz
lol
Abby
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Thanks for you de-stress tips! MAJOR stress in my life right now. I graduated with my M.A. Degree in December, and am currently still looking for a job. Also my husband, a Mechanical Engineer, is currently working 3 hours away and we unfortunately only see each other on weekends. This has been going on for almost a year. And to top it off, today when I was at a coffee shop working on some job stuff my car was completely dead when I went to leave. Had to get it towed and supposedly its a major electrical issue. Not fun to deal with when the hubs is out of town. Major stress today!!
Heather
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I do the same thing. I always feel that if I get the stress out of my head and on to a piece of paper I feel so much better. Visually seeing the tasks rather than bouncing back and forth in my head is huge relief.
Megan@Dirty Dishes Daily
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I think Stressed Out should be my middle name! I’m only joking (sort of haha) but honestly, life of a PhD graduate student definitely gets me down some days.
On days when I feel like my head is going to explode because I have so much to do I write a list and then after I check one off I get up from my desk or lab bench and walk around for a couple minutes. I am a huge believer in little walks to clear my mind!
When I was an intern at the hospital my preceptor gave me some great advice: after super long days on the floor, go home and take a long, hot shower and then eat some chocolate
I still do this even though I’ve now swapped my scrubs for a lab coat!
Ali @SeeAliEatSeeAliRun
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peanutbutterfingers Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 6:01 pm
aw, i love that! and now i want some chocolate.
peanutbutterfingers
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Stress used to be my constant companion! I’ve learned how to control it (not yet get rid of it!).
I make sure that somewhere in my workouts I make time to stretch. It relaxes my body.
I always make sure to have at least a few minutes to rest (which I used to thought mean laying down while still doing a billion things!). As in sit/lay and read, write, or just do nothing for a few minutes. That relaxes my mind.
Taylor Baker
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Oh, I am not a fan of stress! A bit of pressure to get me moving is welcomed but stress just doesn’t really allow me to function.
I first experienced stress when i was doing my finals..i had SO many to do and didnt get to complete studying by the time exams hit. i was hoping to die..it was that bad
my stress reliever = PRAYING. i pray and pray and pray. i pour my heart out to God, (& I wouldn’t feel comfortable doing that with a human being). Its SO comforting knowing that God is here for us & all we have to do is ask Him. Truth be told..anything stressful/painful brings me closer to God
anna
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anna Reply:
April 12th, 2011 at 6:06 pm
correction: first experienced *REALLY REALLY BAD* stress
anna
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Stress describes what I deal with at my job. I have to deal with someone who makes it seem like they don’t want me there. Maybe when you’re related to a lot of people at the company might have something to do with it, but this person gives attitude to a lot of people. They just don’t talk about it.
As for what relaxes me (ha!) I love bubble baths. Reminds me of when I was little and had Mr. Bubble. Loved that stuff. Now I love my Philosophy bubble bath. For Christmas I received two of the chocolate scents. Heavenly! Especially for someone else who has a major sweet tooth.
Lisa
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Oh my gosh!
This is exactly the post I needed to read today.
I am going through one of the most stressful times in my life ever and I am learning rather quickly that actions are going to help me rather than worrying about everything, exercise is definitely on my list for later today for stress relief!
You’re awesome Julie!
Anna @ Acquainted With The Night
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Great post!! I’ll be honest – my life is relatively stress free right now. Just writing this makes me nervous…. eeee! But it’s true! My biggest stress relievers are my family, my puppers, staying on top of things at work, not working too many hours, getting in my workouts and doing things I love – like seeing friends/family, cooking, reading, etc.!
fittingbackin
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Oh girl – I am the queen of stress! And admittedly, I don’t always handle it well
Sometimes, I’ll eat my way through stress/to avoid stress. That doesn’t help.
But, I always find a good run helps me relieve a little bit of stress, as well as a walk with some good music.
I completely understand where you’re coming from. I work at a PR Agency and I feel like 90 percent of the office is always stressed. I hope your work stress lessens quickly so that you can focus on all of the amazing things in your life. Good luck!
Jamie aka “Sometimes Healthy” Girl
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It helps me to take a deep breath and Pray! It always helps me relax and realize this is not the most important thing, just a daily stress/annoyance
Courtney@Courtney Grace: Love, Thoughts and Prayers
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I just say, “it always works out.” Which it always tends to! Having less stress lets me accomplish so much more!
Elizabeth @ the good life
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its official, i NEED to make your bbq pulled chicken. it sounds sooo delicious, every time you have it.
i go for a run or take a nap to relieve stress. as a phd student, i’m constantly stressed, and i honestly can’t remember the last time i wasn’t stressed. its hard, but i know the end result will be worth it, so i persevere.
Elise
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I can relate to the whole work thing…it’s hard to separate work from life, especially since so much of our day is spent at work!
For me, things that help relieve stress are running/working out, cleaning, focusing on something else like making lists to help myself feel organized in other areas, or taking a hot bath.
Life is kinda stressful right now with planning a wedding, working full-time, and a couple of other things. I try to remind myself that one day my life will be different due to other things (different job, having kids, getting older, etc.) so I try to remind myself to enjoy where I’m at because one day I might look back and wish I was this age and at this place in life again.
Laura
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Music is good for your soul
So many times at work, I plug in my headphones, turn on Pandora (favorite stations for stressful days are Colbie Caillat, Michael Buble and Adele) and get lost in my work and miraculously, stress is eliminated and I seem to be a ton more productive!
Hang in there! These kind of days pass but provide a good opportunity for channeling stress in a healthy way!
Amanda
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Im sorry to hear you are having a stressful day. I have to be in the same place. Im buying a house and close at the end of the month, but I work wed and thurs (12 hour shifts) then leave for vacation for a week (which is awesome) but I have a lot to do before we leave.
I unfortuantly turned to food instead of music. I should have read this earlier! haha
Kristen
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This is exactly the type of post I needed today:) As a new teacher looking for a classroom next year, I was very happy to receive a call last night for an interview..and another call this morning…and then another call this afternoon. While this is of course good news, I am also very nervous and very stressed trying to prepare myself for 3 back-to-back interviews. My stress relievers are definitely exercise, my dogs, and my parents. I stopped by my parent’s house on my way home from work and instantly felt more at ease and relaxed, and most importantly they made me feel how I really should be feeling–happy and proud of myself for landing 3 interviews in 3 of the top school districts in St. Louis:)
Kristen
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My greatest thing to do is pray. Many times I feel I need to go past “will this matter in a year?” , to “will this matter in eternity?”. I’ve heard Jesus has this pretty cool effect of calming people’s souls and situations
There are many things in my life that are out of my control right now, or that I am trying to willfully submit to others, and when I feel deep down in my soul that I just want to go the opposite way, I know only strength outside myself can sustain that.
I am glad to have situations that will grow me, because I don’t want an easy life, but a life that will change others. Right now Hebrews Ch. 12 has been teaching me a lot. The next time you are stressed maybe try reading that?
Thanks for sharing about your life too!!
Katie
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When I’m stressed out, I get proactive- get into crazy list-making mode and think of the best possible way to get everything done. Once it’s all right in front of me, it’s easier to figure how to tick everything off, even if the list seems never-ending!
Khushboo
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awe im sorry you had a stressful day! I am under a lot of pressure at my job… i do the work of way more then one person on a daily basis and i crack under pressure to often. The idea of blasting happy music is great unfortunately im not able to do that at my job. Maybe taking breaks and listening to a few songs would help
Thanks for the tip!
I also love the questions “will this matter in…” GREAT way to realize its not wasting any worry over
Sarah
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May tomorrow be a day filled with peace and joy!! One thing that really helps me with stress is taking walks around the park and prayin’, thinking, singin’….
oh, and of course working out hehe.
Ellie@fitforthesoul
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Good stress-relief tips! ABBA never fails to lift my mood. Just taking a few minutes to sit back and slow down can do the world of good. It’s such a shame that I can’t get Pandora here in the UK anymore
Hats @ See How She Runs
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I love that so many people are saying music is a stress relief. I’m actually writing a paper about why we should keep music education in schools.. and stress relief is one of the reasons students should be able to learn about music!
Hope you feel better!
Kaitlyn @ 7 Plates
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Oh Julie, I can *so* relate!
With work, school, personal and family issues (my stepdad was just diagnosed with melanoma last week… and that was pretty much the breaking point for me) i feel like i’ve just been “going through the motions” for the past week.
At least the weather is pretty… and thank goodness for running and music! (And getting lost in books!)
Allison @ Happy Tales
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My main stressors are finances and my health. And unfortunately, both will matter in a week, a month, and a year. My main stress relief is exercise, getting lost in a movie while snuggling with my husband, and prayer.
Amber K
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That’s exactly how my life is right now! My job is just as stressful as yours was. I work at a graphic arts firm in Marketing. I’m getting my Masters in Public Health so I can move out of this field. I’m graduating in Summer (a semester early), and have been taking classes full-time. I’m also working full-time and holding a part-time internship, and training for a half marathon!!
I go running to relieve stress or work out. Since I live in Ohio, and it’s finally nice out. I’m finally able to run outside!
Stacy
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Oh, that is so me. I always turn to music. My destressors are: Music, running, my furbaby (down to only one right now – sob!), and my beloved amazing husband.
‘Dee
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Stress has been at an all time high this week. Left late Monday to drive 5 hours to a job site, got home Thursday morning at 3 am. Leave tomorrow for ATL Phat Camp, only after having class this evening. I just need more hours.
Best way to beat the stress in my opinion? Liock yourself in a room for 10 minutes and just scream. And work out. Both work for me.
Caroline
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