Keeping Calm in a Chaotic World
But completely removing stress just isn't possible, especially in today's slow economy. An American Psychological Association poll from September 2008 revealed that 80 percent of Americans felt stress due to the economy -- and the numbers have no doubt gone up since then.
"If you haven't lost your job, your home, or your savings, you're probably worried that it could happen, and you're concerned for those of your friends who have been so devastated," writes Dr. David Jeremiah, the pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church, in his new book, "Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World: What on Earth Should We Do Now?"
The key isn't to avoid stress, but to learn to cope with the pressures you must face. You can't control what happens in the world, but you can control your response to events.
Dr. Jeremiah recommends that stressed-out Americans calm themselves and focus on the positives in their lives. "Calm," he says, "is an interesting word that is known more for what it is not: agitation, fear, or turbulence. But 'calm' does require some kind of storm, or we would never notice it."
Use this turbulent time to re-evaluate your life and focus on what's most important to you. Look at your relationships. Attempt to change what you can and accept what you cannot.
Try some proven techniques and activities that can help you find peace and calm:
- Praying/journaling
- Seeking healthy relationships
- Focusing on constructive behavior
- Scheduling downtime
- Determining to be content
Dr. Jeremiah's book, "Living with Confidence in a Chaotic World: What on Earth Should We Do Now?" offers more advice for Americans hoping to find peace during stressful times. For more information, visit www.thomasnelson.com.
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