Those of us who work under the whip of excessive ambition in a persistently pressurized state of mind clearly run the risk of long-term health problems. If modern man is ultimately to survive as a species, we must find a way to minimize the deleterious effects of the stress reflex. Absenting ourselves from stressful environments is an obvious solution, one that is rarely feasible. We should also pay attention to our personal circadian rhythms and plan our most intense work for the times of day when we are most alert and adaptive. An overlooked stress controller is simply communicating our preferences and tolerances to the very people who could make the most difference like immediate colleagues, spouses, and close acquaintances.
Physical diversions are reliable mitigators of stress reactions.
Besides providing a welcome distraction, regular physical exercise conditions our circulatory reflexes to a slower heart rate and lower blood pressure. Mental diversions related to recreation or to the arts can be just as beneficial, producing an unconscious biofeedback that calms and heals. We should make an effort to plan our vacations for full decompression and relaxation. A collegial attitude toward a few close professional colleagues can help minimize stress. Busy people should take the extra time required to initiate and nourish collegial relationships so they can hear alternative interpretations of stressful events at work.