Change lanes

We are all getting geared for a New Year. The thought of any kind of stress getting carried along with is really not very exciting. I am going to suggest a few things we need to change in order to step into a happy year.  

Change is the only constant, they say. But, I believe that the change must be positive. For this, we have to keep the focus of our mind in the right direction. 

Examine your emotions

I think it’s very important for us to be aware of our emotions. Negative emotions like anger disturb our equilibrium. They tend to give us acute stress. 

Understand your anger

Most people are hot tempered due to small irritants.  It is important that you develop awareness into why you are angry, what are the reasons. Record these reasons, talk to a friend who can observe you objectively and yet with love.  Once you are aware of the sources of your anger, you can take steps to rectify it. 

Express yourself

Research has proved that writing or any other form of expression is a very positive way of dealing with rectifying negative emotion and turning it positive. Try and eliminate your anger triggers. You cannot extricate all your issues but eliminating some is pretty effective.

Cut obsession

A common habit is obsessing over negative thoughts. The moment there is a trigger, the thought pattern takes off. Repeatedly discussing anger or other related topics, increases the stress hormones in your brain, which lead to lower immunity and other physical diseases. 

Manage conflict

There are ways in which we can guide our own negative emotions. It is imperative that we know how to deal with our emotions when our buttons are pushed. Don’t allow the emotions of other people to take you to a place where you become a victim and feel the need to defend yourself. 

Self discipline

Know what you want and work towards getting it.  It is important to set a disciplined target always. When you streamline your life to some extent, stress has no time to build up.  

 Self control

This refers to maintaining self control in a high emotional conversation. This is a skill you need to develop. This will make it easier for you to remain calm when tension is at a high level around you. 

Peaceful vibe

Do not send a threatened or angry vibe.  People mirror emotions. Whatever you send comes to you double fold. Send happy thoughts. 

Maintain composure

Once you learn to manage your emotions well, the strength will make you achieve your goals. Discard the negative and embrace the positive.  The greatest asset is to lead a stress-free life. 

(Singh is a Chandigarh-based psychotherapist)