“There are simple ways you can manage stress without being a hot mess," says Coach Colene. "I call it spring cleaning your life and, trust me, it’s a lot more beneficial than spring cleaning your windows and base boards!
Lexington, KY (PRWEB) March 28, 2014
Ready for sunshine, sandals and sweet tea? After one of the worst winters in recent history, spring is finally here! Since we were holed up all winter, it’s likely your social calendar and “to do” lists are packed. But, don’t let a lot of tasks cause you to have a March Madness meltdown.
“Along with spring bringing flowers and showers, the season is also likely to bring a hectic schedule,” says the Kentucky-based Coach Colene Elridge. “There are simple ways you can manage stress without being a hot mess. I call it spring cleaning your life and, trust me, it’s a lot more beneficial than spring cleaning your windows and base boards!”
Here are Coach Colene’s ten tips for spring cleaning your life:
1. Your Mind: Focus on the positives - “Grab some paper and a pen and make a list of all the awesome qualities you bring to the table. I call it ‘My List O’Awesome’. Don’t think anything is too big or too small. I expect you to come up with more than 10 things you can tout about yourself. Keep this list on your computer, make a copy and keep in your wallet, etc. Look at it you can see it when you need a reminder about your awesomeness.”
2. Your TIME: Pomodoro Technique - “I discovered the Pomodoro Technique last year and it changed my life! It’s an app that helps you focus on a task for a set period of time (usually 25 minutes). If you don’t finish the task during that time, you take a short break and then reset the timer for another 25 minutes. Using this method has made everything seem more manageable.”
3. Your HOME: Plant - “My mom has the greenest thumb of any person I have ever met. I did not inherit that green thumb, but last year I grew basil and felt like a champ! Just the thought of growing something from a seedling to a full-blown plant became a bit of a meditative experience. You don’t have to grow basil, but maybe grow a flower in a pot on your kitchen window. The seeds you plant (both in plant-form and in life) can grow into something beautiful.”
4. Your ATTITUDE: Be a bit “selfish” - “It’s ok, and sometimes imperative, to be a bit selfish. I’m not suggesting that you constantly put yourself above others, but I am suggesting you honor your own needs. It’s ok to: Ask for and accept help from others. Celebrate your own successes in life. Be honest with others about your true feelings or opinion (tactfully, of course). If we don’t practice the art of self-care, it can lead to stress and anxiety, and spring is too fantastic of a time for feeling down.”
5. Your RELATIONSHIPS: Quality time - “Do you spend quality time with your significant other without your phone, iPad, or any other distractions? I love technology, but it has significantly decreased our ability to meaningfully interact with others in a face-to-face setting. To combat this, establish technology-free meal times. Use the time to talk and enjoy each other’s company.”
6. Your CAREER: Find a Mentor - “The best thing I ever did for myself and my career was to find a mentor. The beauty of a mentor is that they can offer advice; provide guidance; and because they have likely experienced what you’re going through, offer real-life best practices. My mentors have supported me in countless ways. They have introduced me to key players and encouraged me to take big steps in my career path. Find someone you admire and reach out to them about mentoring.”
7. Your FINANCES: Find ways to save - “Did you know you can save money on some of your bills just by asking? For example, call your cable company and see if there are any discounts for which you may be eligible. I’ve gotten a discount for my cell phone for working in a certain county. Google sites that offer coupon codes for online purchases. There are all kinds of savings available; you just need to look for them.”
8. Your WARDROBE: Host a swap party - “I love hosting a party with friends to get rid of clothing you no longer wear. It’s a great way to refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime. Your friends will love an excuse to get together and to get rid of clothes they may not wear. Anything that’s left, you can either try to consign or donate.”
9. Your HEALTH: Make small changes in your diet - “Beyond drinking less-sugary drinks, think about other areas of your diet where you can make small changes. Maybe you could try meatless Mondays, or lower your carb intake one day a week. One of my favorites is to add one extra serving of vegetables to each meal, including breakfast. It’s the small steps that add up to the big changes.”
10. Your KARMA: Volunteer - “Take some time to be of service to others. Volunteering is a great way to give back to the community, as well as to get some karma bonus points. Use this time to find an organization in which you care passionately and give freely of your time, energy, and efforts. The feeling of accomplishment we get from volunteering can boost overall well-being. Plus, it’s a great way to expand your network and social circle.”
About Coach Colene
Coach Colene Elridge is a dynamic trainer who offers an interactive and innovative approach to learning and development. She is a Success Coach who works with individuals and organizations that aspire to "Be More." Colene is also a human resources professional and certified mediator. The Kentucky-based Colene has a Bachelor’s degree from Transylvania University and a Master’s degree Sullivan University. More details on Coach Colene on http://www.CoachColene.com.
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