How do you deal with stress?

Two foolproof and key elements to dealing with stress are prioritizing and saying no.

Although it seems like everything is important, in reality, it isn’t so. Everything cannot be important at the same time. Some things are always more important at any given moment. Think of a hospital emergency room. Every person is important and needs care, but not every injury or wound can be treated simultaneously. So, things are prioritized. Similarly, prioritize your responsibilities. What needs attention now, and what can wait? Some wounds are life-threatening if not treated immediately, while others can wait. In your life, what needs immediate attention? What can wait? What, if not handled now, will make everything else fall apart? What requires more of your attention right now, and where can you lessen your focus—just for the time being?

Remember, nothing is forever, and these are all just temporary adjustments we make to keep things in order and life moving forward. Not making these adjustments or prioritizing can quickly lead to chaos.

Say no to things that are not a priority right now. Saying no is just as valuable as saying yes. It prevents people from wasting each other’s time and allows everyone to move forward. Don’t say yes to everything and everyone—it’s not feasible. Prioritize, then decide what deserves your yes now and what requires a no. And please remember: “Whenever you say yes to one thing, you are saying no to something else.”

Now, the question is, how do you say no? Isn’t it rude? No, it’s not rude—it’s reasonable and honest. Here’s some language on how to say no kindly:
"I would love to help with that, but right now I can’t. Hopefully, next time I’ll be able to."

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-Vera Borukhov
SparkBrain Learning Inc.
“Developing Great Minds, Everyday!”