To highlight International Stress Awareness Day, we sat down with our Youth Hub Coach, Dean, to discuss his top tips for managing stress.
Dean joined us in August as a Youth Hub Coach, bringing a wealth of experience. From the military service to electrical engineering, sales, project management for a global IT company, and even running his own cleaning business. Outside of work, Dean’s also a qualified rowing coach and leads the Junior Squad at Pengwern Boat Club. He’s all about keeping things low-stress whenever he can! Here are his top tips:
1. Take breaks: Take short breaks throughout the day, and at least 30 minutes for lunch. You can also try taking a few 5–10 minute walks to get some fresh air and recharge.
2. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help you cope with stress and boost your productivity. Yoga is a good option, but any form of exercise is beneficial.
3. Get enough sleep: Limit caffeine in the late afternoon and avoid stimulating activities like using your computer or watching TV before bed.
4. Focus on your life outside of work: Spend time with people you don’t work with, and develop interests and skills outside of your job.
5. Prioritise tasks: Set realistic goals, learn to say “no”, and stay organised.
6. Make healthy choices: Avoid using alcohol or fast food to cope with stress. Instead, try to make healthy choices when you’re feeling tense.
7. Identify what you can change: Consider what’s within your control to change, and what’s not.
8. Develop a recovery plan: Learn what works best for you to recover from stress.