Stress Management

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12
Learn to Weather Disappointment
and Set Boundaries
Life will not always deliver us everything
we wish and hope for. There will be times
when a colleague forgets a lunch date with you or a
long promised promotion does not come through
for you. Whether it is a minor letdown or a major
disappointment, learn to weather life’s blows.
Ask God to help you better deal with life’s frustrations,
keeping in mind this advice from the apostle
Peter: “[Cast] all your care upon Him, for He cares
for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
Finally, learn how to say “no.” You are not
under obligation to accommodate every person
and every request which comes your way. Saying
“yes” to everyone can result in deepening frustration
and stress levels. Keep in mind the example
of Jesus and the disciples as reported in Mark 6:31
and 32. There, Jesus and His companions had been
working hard, teaching and healing multitudes. In
spite of considerable success and popularity, He
sensed it was time for His renewal—He and His
apostles didn’t even have time to eat. They left by
boat for a quieter spot. The lesson: it’s all right to
say “no” to some requests in order to reduce stress
and renew for future tasks.