Think ahead of time about how you're going to use your time. If you're stressed, whether because of your work or something more personal, the first step to feeling better is to identify the cause. Maintaining, improving and increasing healthy relationships with supportive friends and family members powerfully promotes resilience. Many find that connections with a religious family, neighbors, and even pets help them feel positive and energized, even if children and grandchildren aren't around. You can prevent or reduce stress by planning ahead, deciding which tasks need to be done first, and preparing for stressful events.
For example, if a friend pressures you, taking a step back and adjusting your expectations can allow you to maintain this close bond. Working out or attending yoga, dance or tai chi classes with friends also helps to achieve the second step: staying connected. After thinking carefully about the issue, you can identify practical measures to improve the situation.
