Is your job stressing you out? Are you bringing home your ‘work baggage’ ?
It is an increasingly common thing ~ many feel like there aren’t enough hours in the day to complete their work, to fix problems, or to balance work and home. Many more mothers these days are working – whether by choice or out of necessity.

You’re torn between two worlds, each competing for your attention. Your thoughts are equally divided between the needs of your family, things you need to get done and deadlines. Often by the time you get off of work there are already 5 voicemails requiring attention – yours.

Many women report feeling irritable, unappreciated and angry after they get off work. Many say they are exhausted physically and mentally. Juggling priorities leaves countless ladies simply feeling left out and even neglected. Common responses to these feelings include yelling, outbursts, impatience, crying, insomnia, over-eating and depression.

How can you decompress?

The first place we go after work is to our car or some other form of transportation. Pick out 3 different types of music – 3 songs you really love to hear and keep those CDs with you. Having only one selection usually doesn’t work because our moods are different every day. Keep comfortable shoes and a change of clothes in your car in case you are going out after work or to some activity. It’s always a good idea to have some ‘touch-up’ make-up with you for just in case. Don’t immediately get on the phone if you can help it. Give yourself a few moments ‘alone’ to scream, drive in silence, listen to your favorite song or whatever. Have a lot of traffic to get through? Bring along a pair of nail clippers and nail file, a comedy CD, or even a massaging seat cushion! Get a mini-recorder to record grocery lists, to do’s, revamp appointments or whatever for heavy traffic or frequent stoplights. For more extroverted persons winking or waving with a smile at passers-by will definitely bring a smile to your own face.
At home change clothes, clean up, take a moment for yourself alone even if it’s only 5 minutes. Remember that your day isn’t your family’s fault. Pet a dog or a cat. Spray your favorite scent on, light candles, turn on music that makes you feel good. Make time for the things you love to do ie paint, sing, read, run.

Your attitude is a decision. No one makes it for you, no one causes you to act one way or another. It is a choice only you can make. Stress happens to all of us and definitely can impact how we are feeling or coping. Check out the link below for 101 ways to reduce stress. If you are overwhelmed and can’t seem to get out of the ‘hole’ you feel you’re in seek help from a professional – counselor, therapist, pastor or doctor.