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Stress is our body’s way of responding to any kind of demand or threat. When we feel threatened, our nervous system responds by releasing a flood of stress hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol, which provoke the body for emergency action.
Stress may be from our work, our money (or lack thereof), our spouse or significant other, or from that crazy voice inside our head. For me years ago, my stress was the result of a failing marriage resulting in divorce.
I was all alone atop my company, but in fact I was not alone. I continue to be amazed how many entrepreneurs suffer, both personally and professionally, after divorce, and I now spend my time helping divorced entrepreneurs.
That marriage stress affected me as a business leader, which, of course, negatively impacted the business. Oh, those days of solitude and dread when I didn’t want to have anything to do with the company let alone life. Not because I didn’t like what I did, but simply because I wanted to completely check out and get away from it all.
Most of us keep our stress hidden. We want to appear strong and in control. We are uncomfortable being transparent. We don’t enjoy expressing emotion.
That stress, “bottled up”, buried or stuffed inside… can kill us.
• Sometimes stress appears suddenly, as in heart issues. You’ve heard of the “perfectly healthy 42 year old that dropped dead running”.
• Sometimes stress surfaces slower, as in the emergence of diverticulitis.
• Maybe stress shows via insomnia, a slow killer that thrives on limiting our body from its much-needed rejuvenation.
• Stress could surface in fits of rage or angry outbursts.
• Maybe stress surfaces via addictive behaviors.
So, what can we do to alleviate stress, prolong and improve our lives, and increase our energy and vitality?
We can take strategic actions: limited but focused actions intended for our own good. We must take care of ourselves first otherwise there is no family, no business, no life.
No, this is not selfish – I contend that it’s selfless. I’m not advocating buying things our behaving like a narcissist. This is about self-preservation and the strengthening of self, the results of which positively impact everyone in our life.
1. Operate with total integrity. Never do ANYTHING that isn’t in your children’s or your stakeholder’s best interests.
2. Invest in yourself. Boundaries truly set you free. Jumpstart life refreshing processes with www.TheEntrepreneursReboot.com.
3. Rebuild your business. Great, strategic processes can replace much of your busy work. Work ON your business, not IN it.
4. Redesign your lifestyle. Focus on balance, purpose and greatness.
5. Find a tribe. Avoid that entrepreneurial terror and don’t go this alone.
I suggest this group.
Strategic actions are not quick fixes. Some of these will take time to implement with life changing results. An added benefit is that simply knowing why you are doing what you are doing will alleviate significant stress immediately.
Some of these strategic actions, such as investing in self and finding a tribe, can be executed quickly with long-term positive results.
Devise a plan for yourself. You’ve always planned for your business, now it is time to do the same for you! Don’t bottle up that stress – let it out. Exercise your mind and body.
Here’s to regaining control and mastering your wonderful life!
After all, “Life is a Gift!”
This story has been republished to Medium.
Photo: Shutterstock