101 Stress Tips

  1. Recognize the problem
  2. Gain control where you can
  3. Work smarter, not longer
  4. Take a hike (or go for a walk)
  5. Identify the elements that promote burnout in your life
  6. Employ coping strategies
  7. Soak your feet in warm water
  8. Build positive social supports
  9. Do yoga
  10. Consider ways to make your work more satisfying
  11. Read a book of inspirational quotes
  12. Spend quiet time alone each day
  13. Blow bubbles
  14. Sit in a church or other contemplative space
  15. Take new risks
  16. Go window shopping
  17. Watch cartoons
  18. Color with a child
  19. People watch at a park
  20. Collaborate on a new project
  21. Control thoughts that you are indispensable
  22. Make a cake and lick the beaters
  23. Take a nap
  24. Daydream
  25. Plan ahead to reduce performance stress
  26. Hug someone
  27. YouTube–guided meditation
  28. Call your parents or a loved one just to talk
  29. Make a “To Do” list and cross items off when completed
  30. Keep a stress diary to identify and analyze your reactions to stress
  31. Sing out loud
  32. Try aromatherapy: lavender, chamomile, and marjoram essential oils
  33. Vary your day to include different activities
  34. Get crafty and messy!
  35. Avoid drugs, alcohol, and tobacco
  36. Play a team sport
  37. Try alternate nostril breathing
  38. Express your feelings and thoughts
  39. Go swimming
  40. Get rid of negativity
  41. Have realistic expectations
  42. Make time for relaxation
  43. Eat dessert before your entrée
  44. Don’t over-schedule yourself
  45. Keep a daily gratitude journal
  46. Shout “tah-dah” when you complete a task
  47. Go on a retreat
  48. Pick or buy yourself fresh flowers
  49. Create a positive affirmations folder or memory box — review as necessary
  50. Start a collection
  51. Read a children’s book
  52. Wear your favorite outfit
  53. Have a root beer float
  54. Make yourself a Valentine
  55. Reduce or eliminate caffeine consumption
  56. Get a massage
  57. Meet a friend for lunch
  58. Schedule a wellness day
  59. Get a stress ball and squeeze it!
  60. Play soothing sounds in your living or working environment
  61. See a counselor or advisor
  62. Exercise regularly
  63. Trade a 5-minute scalp massage with a friend
  64. Take a dog for a walk
  65. Visualize a silly image and LOL
  66. Keep a journal
  67. Eat a piece of dark chocolate
  68. Forgive someone a wrong
  69. Try something new
  70. Get involved in an organization
  71. Quit doing something
  72. Leave your room or building at lunch
  73. Mentor someone
  74. Get up 15 minutes earlier in the mornings
  75. Take 10 deep breaths
  76. Eat a healthy breakfast
  77. Go dancing
  78. Learn to do something new
  79. Go to bed early
  80. Be an agent of change within your institution
  81. Plant a garden
  82. Listen to soothing music
  83. Get organized
  84. Play with a pet
  85. Do what you love or get career counseling
  86. Send a thank you note to show your appreciation
  87. Play an instrument or the radio
  88. Teach someone something
  89. Watch a comedy film or a sitcom
  90. Balance your lifestyle
  91. Light some candles and turn out the lights
  92. If you feel like crying—cry
  93. Beat a drum, pillow, or punching bag
  94. Keep appreciation messages or cards in your environment
  95. Develop a support network
  96. Pray or meditate
  97. Take a time out
  98. Slow down; try speaking slower, too
  99. Reward yourself at the end of a hard day
  100. Soak in a Jacuzzi or bath
  101. Tense and relax your whole body