Some stress is healthy, but too much can be debilitating. Most stress comes, not from the event itself, but from our perception of the event(s). Therefore, reframing our perception, putting it in context, and developing stress management techniques are useful approaches.

A first step is to determine where the stress is coming from and what the stressors are. The next step is to determine how perception is playing into this, and what skills/techniques are being used/not used. With this baseline, we can then begin to establish a plan for better managing the stress. Possible approaches include prioritizing in accordance with your career/life goals, improving delegation skills, deciding what to not do anymore, and living a healthier lifestyle. We have multiple assessments, "beating your stress" checklists, and the Horizontal Maslow (described on the Time Management page) that provide ongoing guidance/reference.

Occasionally, the solution to stress is to get out of the "bad" situation – bad boss, bad organization, bad marriage, etc. Coaching (career/life or executive) can help you identify the "tipping point" and when you need to cut your losses and move on. Then, some of the other technique-related approaches can be more productive.