Another motivating factor for me, in respect to getting my stress levels under control, is the fact that my stress is not only my own.
As mothers, wives, administrators of our homes, the female influence in our churches and as we work in all the roles that come with those things, we have major influence on those around us.
When I am stressed, and allowing that stress to effect me in such a way that my life, mood, attitude is not reflecting that of Christ, then I am hurting the influence I may have for Christ in my world. When you think about the influence you have, with husbands, children, friends, shop clerks, customer service reps, strangers ..etc, etc., etc. ...we have alot of potential damage or encouragement to give.
Often, its the mother or woman of the house that sets the mood. If it is one of stress and anxiety, there is no way around it not effecting your home as well. If you have children, your stress effects both their stress levels, and what they perceive to be stressful. If you have a husband, your stress has direct effect on your relationship..right? What about how you speak with the customer service rep on the phone when there is a problem with your bill? Or the check out lady has messed up your coupons :)
When we allow our stress to overwhelm us, we cant be fooled into thinking that it only affects us. Think about times when someone close to you is stressed out the max, how did you feel when you were with them? Do you feel at peace, or a bit stressed yourself?
It makes this whole effort to de-stress ourselves an important focus. Its not only for our own sake, but for that of the kids, hubby and those around us. It doesnt mean that choas will not happen. But, it means that when it happens we are calm in the center of the storm. We need to be the ones that they look to for focus, redirecting, and control.
I know I struggle in this area. When I am short on time and I feel overwhelmed I sometimes lash out at the people around. Normally it's my kids or husband that get the worse of it. I have to really make an effort to focus on God and allow His spirit to lead me. Sometimes I do better than others. I think the biggest key for me is recognizing when I am feeling short tempered so that I can pray more and do more meditating on God to get my focus back where it needs to be.
ReplyDelete~Ashley
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ReplyDeleteI have been as I have said before an admitted Stress Queen. I realize how much stress my stress has influenced my home at times. I am ashamed to admit that sometimes I really am a pain for Walt and the kids to be around. Walt and I have been together so long that he certainly has seen my stress over and over. I am really trying to work on this through the class. I am determined to keep asking God to continue to help me with this battle. I am also trying to learn to trust others more and allow them to help me more. I am very blessed to have such a patient and loving family. I am also blessed to have a class like this to attend.
ReplyDeleteI am hanging in there this week. I just got back from a dinner with three coworkers. They were treating me...because I am getting moved to another department for next year. I did not ask for this move and have been EXTREMELY STRESSED and Upset over the prospect of moving. However, I am feeling a little less stressed the last few days about the upcoming change. This blogging and class are helping.
ReplyDeleteHow exciting to think of what God may have planned for you in a whole new place Daphe! I pray that God will give you peace in that move, and a sense of excitement to know that God is working in you some way :)
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