Self Help
Handling Stress From Criticism
Benjamin Franklin once said: 'The sting of any criticism comes from the truth it contains.' Most of us are most sensitive to stress in the areas where we are weak. It may also be difficult for us to take in these truths because of the manner in which they are usually communicated. These are great sources of stress for us in every field of life, such as work place, schools, social gathering and in our own home. But, knowing how to deal with accusations or criticisms may save you from a lot of stress and mental agony.
1. Don`t be shocked or offended when someone decides to criticize you. While it may feel like they are trying to hurt you, they may actually be speaking with good intentions.
2. Don`t take criticism personally. When someone criticizes you or is angry with you, try to focus on what you did or didn`t do and ignore any generalizations or personality attacks that also come along. People can sometimes be vicious and insensitive when they are angry. If you put their viciousness aside, you can still benefit greatly from the feedback they are providing you.
3. If you don`t understand the legitimacy of the other person`s anger or criticism, ask them to help you better understand their point of view. As long as you are interested in what you can learn from other people`s negative comments (instead of arguing against them), they will usually be willing to explain things in greater detail.
Some Dos and Don`t
1. Never take important decisions while under stress.
2. Learning to create or be part of interactive groups/communities helps in weaning away an individual from stress and its effects. Sharing of personal views, experiences, even getting consultation and involving in meaningful activities play an important role in lessening or managing stress.
3. Planning ahead is the secret of sound financial management without which one can invite a lot of stress . Allocate your income across the categories you need to fund each month. These might include mortgage, clothing, food, holiday, medical,children`s education, traveling expenses and so on. Assign a part of your income to each of these categories, regularly.
4. You spend a lot of your life on the road. Do whatever it takes to make the journey a pleasant one. The following attitudes may help make your life on-road safe and enjoyable:
a. Give other motorists the benefit of doubt. The slow driver in front of you could be sick or aged.
b. Travel with someone whose company you enjoy.
c. Listen to a humorous tape or radio station.
d. Listen to music that you really enjoy.
e. Try to figure out what the crazy drivers you encounter are going to do with the extra few minutes that they gain on the journey.
Do you have an emotional-eating habit? Test your eating habit