Stress is the ultimate issue in many of our lives and can take a toll on our mental and physical health. It is essential to rejuvenate yourself mentally, emotionally and physically, to reduce stress. Especially during mid 30s to mid-40s, stress is an inseparable part of our lives, at least for most of us. Family issues, kids, relationship, work-life balance, financial plans, retirement plans- there are too many factors that affects our mental health. Men and women deal with stress in different ways in general. This is because the reasons behind the stress for a man or woman is their 40s is much different. A woman in her forties is usually stressed with work-life balance and being the caretaker of the kids and elders. Let us find out a few simple ways to manage stress for women in 40s.
Be selfish about your me-timeSet aside a fixed half and hour a day at least for yourself. Do whatever you like during this time. From pursuing your hobby to simply taking a nap- this should be entirely your time. Do not compromise it for anything or let anyone interrupt it. Be it your kids, husband, in-laws or office- do not be there at the beck and call of anyone when you are enjoying this me-time. It may seem selfish even to you, but on the long run it would keep you sane.
Cut out toxic peopleWe all have acquaintances and friends that we meet throughout our lives. But some of these people may not be the best influence in your life. You would know best who are the people that stress you out. Toxic and manipulative behaviours, demanding attitude, any behaviour they do that compromises your health and sanity is wrong. The best way to deal with such people is completely severing contact with them. Even if you care for them or they are close, maintain an emotional and physical distance that cannot be crossed.
Do not bring your office homeThe main challenge that adds to your stress is failing to maintain the boundary between office and work. Whether you go to office or work from home, strictly set a limit. Do not attend office calls after office hours. Never leave residual office tasks thinking you can go home and complete them. such practices eventually removes all barriers between work-life balance and gaining that back becomes very difficult.
Professional life coachingThere are many life coach association which can help you out. When you are going through extreme stressful situations, you can seek help from such organizations. They will be able to give you great advices and even guide you to take the right steps to lead a stress-free life.
Your mental health also affects your physical condition. Hence, it is very important to take care of your mental health. Especially for women in their 40s with spouse, children and elders all depending on you for emotional support, it can get extremely stressful. But practising the tips shared above would ensure you thrive.