Review: A Helpful Stress Management Book for All
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 04 30, 2014
I recently read and reviewed the book titled, "Stress Less: 10 Balancing Insights on Work and Life" written by Amy Freeman. The foundation of this 69-page concise book is based on three main principles: You are not alone, small changes can make a difference, and peace and success stem from discovering and following your personal positive truths. First of all, I felt reassurance when Mrs. Freeman reminded me that I was NOT alone. Many people often forget that there are others out there experiencing the same thing. We live in a high stress society. Each of the ten chapters focuses on one insight. The insights are simple, yet effective strategies that can be easily implemented in your life without changing who you are. However, you MUST actually attempt to implement the suggestions given in the book for any noticeable progress to be seen. This is not a "quick fix" book. The author also reminds you that it is ok to start small when she says, " Change something, however small." It is better to start where you are now than to NOT start at all. Everything can make a difference.The author covers a variety of topics including asking for help, letting go of myths, scheduling time for yourself, the personal investment you need to make with personal relationships, getting rest, taking care of your health, finding unique solutions, and more. She recommends scheduling and giving yourself 30 minutes to an 1 hour of time to yourself, your goals, or your needs to help reduce stress and create a sense of order which will enable you to assist others better if you do so.The author asked you if you feel stuck. My answer was yes, but her words motivated me to give 15 minutes to a project and to just start anywhere. I have a huge decluttering project and that one small suggestion implemented small changes that are slowly making a difference in the appearance and comfort level of my home. Being consistent with this one small action has also run over into many other projects I have tackled this month with regards to my health and personal relationships. The author states, "Consistency is contagious" and I found that to be true with my life circumstances. She also says, " You only get one YOU" hoping to remind her readers of how important is is to be intentional and take care of our health and well being. She provides you with a list of basic, simple action steps that will improve your health while reducing your stress level. Her list of physical problems that are common indicators enabled me to recognize the early sings of my extreme stress levels. Additionally, she reminds you that the time you invest in your personal relationships is about both quality and quantity which can be forgotten in our busy lives.Each chapter ends with a "Take a Rest Stop" reflective exercise encouraging you to implement the strategies immediately. Amy Freeman reminds her readers to be specific when writing goals and creating schedules. The author also provides you with a set of downloadable worksheets and video excerpts that complement the book topics and will help you complete the exercises. These resources are accessible through a website link. The short, You Tube video excerpts are taken from her "Finding Your Balance in Work and Life" 45-minute DVD presentation. Furthermore, the author adds in personal stories that give you another perspective on the topic. These stories can often be eye openers on how you are living your life.At the back of the book, you'll find a bulleted list of relevant website resources divided into the following categories: Stress and Your Heath, Understanding and Managing Your Stress, Job Stress, and Managing Family Stress.I recommend this handy book to anyone having difficulties managing their stress. If your stress level is having an impact on your work, relationships, goals, productivity, or health, then you must start somewhere and take action to reduce it. This book is a must read especially if you need a little guidance with how to reduce your stress level and balance your work load with life. The book can also be used as a small group activity at church.Disclaimer: I was given a free PDF copy of this book to review in exchange for an unbiassed, honest review of the book as part of the Story Cartel book review program. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this information in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."