Make The Change That Will Improve Your Life

Image Courtesy Rowan of Ravara

From Keeping the Stress Monster in Check | Slow Down Fast Today! ~ David B. Bohl

Are you stressed? Ready for the therapist’s couch? Wondering if you should just dump your corporate job and run away to Alaska to work on a fishing boat?

In today’s world, more people are having to deal with increasing anxiety at the intersection of career, home, family and social life. Is it just me, or are a lot of us just not sure of whether we’re coming or going anymore?

The amount of stress that assaults us daily is tremendous. Work, money, relationships - they all create their own level of stress. The gadgets and tools that were supposed to make our lives easier have only served to add to the stress. Between cellphones, email, text messaging and other technological wonders, getting away from the things that stress us out has become difficult.

As David points out, there are a number of ways to reduce the amount of stress you are subjected to. Which you can use depends on your situation. But one in particular can be life-changing.

The Big Change

If you dread going to work in the morning, or come home from work feeling like you've been put through the ringer, give serious consideration to changing jobs. Yes, that makes it sound very easy. But even if you have to take a pay cut, the improvement in your quality of life can mean a world of difference. The theory that if you do what you love the money will follow holds true far more than you might think.

When you are doing something you enjoy, something you are passionate about, things seem to fall into place. Your mood is lighter, your tasks easier. You love what you do. But make no mistake - getting there may be the scariest thing you have ever done.

For many, changing a career is filled with obstacles. Money may be short. Family will be worried. And you will face self-doubt of a magnitude you may never have previously experienced. These will pass. With the lessening of stress,your thinking will become clearer, your resolve more powerful, your determination and resourcefulness will hit greater highs.

Making The Leap

If you decide to make a change, take some steps first:

• Decide what it is you really want to do. What is it that really makes you happy?
• Can you afford a quick switch? If money is an issue, think about how you can transition. Can you do it part-time while keeping your day gig?
• Make a plan. What do you need to do to be successful, to really enjoy what you will be doing?
• Be prepared to sacrifice. Achieving your dream career may require less time in front of the TV, or giving up some time on the weekends. You may have to tighten your financial belt, or give up some of your entertainment. Trust that as you get closer to your goal, your life will pull into balance.

If you're feeling overly-stressed, take a good long look at what you do to pay the bills. Changing your career to something you enjoy may just be the best thing you can do for you and your family.