The Tribune

By Deidre Bastian

If you ask what is the most important key to happiness or contentment, aside from peace within, I would have to say avoiding stress and negativity. Even though researchers agree there are two kinds of stress: good stress/eustress and bad stress:/distress, all are commonly known as stress.

Is a stress-free life even possible? Let’s be realistic. Everyone knows that graphic and web designers usually work very, very long hours into the wee hours of the night, which can become very stressful and tiresome.

But can this be avoided? Not really, as deadlines bequeath stress, and stress is not a laughing matter....it’s real. How we respond is critical, as two people may experience the same amount of pressure but react differently.

Typically, stress is a major problem for many, especially when battling a hectic deadline, chaotic home life or even a few bad habits, such as unhealthy eating, drinking and smoking, which can lead to a host of other problems.

Stress is never good for anyone, and despite its features many of us still dream of retiring to the beaches and enjoying our time in stress-free bliss.

Given that stress is real, let us look at a few resolutions that can assist in alleviating stress, not only for inundated designers but other business professionals as well.

Meditation: What do you enjoy that calms you? Many doctors recommend meditation to suspend deep-rooted tension and fatigue. Some people like taking a nap, a cold shower, reading, housework, a comedy film or yard work. Find your calming activity and try to do it each day.

Exercise: Exercise decreases depression, lowers anxiety and aids sleep. For example, all of the body’s systems - the cardiovascular, muscular and nervous systems - communicate with each other more closely, which results in a revitalised feeling.

Balanced meal: Your routine of eating is importantt, as certain foods set certain moods. A healthy diet with lots of fresh fruits and vegetables keeps stress at bay. It also reduces refined carbohydrates and sugar, since they cause blood sugar to increase and drop quickly, which leads to exhaustion.

Reduce caffeine: Caffeine in the form of coffee, tea or Coca-Cola is the fuel of a designer’s workplace, but it has its downsides. Caffeine causes anxiety so, if possible, cut back slowly rather than going cold turkey.

Rest: Relaxation is the body’s natural means for dissolving stress and fatigue. For example, when you have had a good night’s sleep, it does not matter too much if a client asks for an unreasonable amount of design modification. Your patience is clearer, and you tend to be calmer and better able to deal with issues.

Simplify your schedule: A hectic schedule is a major cause of high stress. Reduce the number of commitments to just the very important ones, and learn to say no to overload.

De-clutter: This is a favourite of mine. Identify anything that clutters your office space and get rid of it. An organised environment reflects a peaceful mind.

Avoid Negativity: Most people walk around all day with negative thoughts, which is unproductive. Choose positive environments, as negative and stressful atmospheres have a tendency to affect overall physical health.

If a client creates a negative environment, try your best to diffuse it immediately, as the stressful effects may linger long after the dispute has subsided.

Passion: Throwing yourself into a creative activity is a great way to de-stress. Find your passion and go after it, as you will enjoy every second of every minute when working on something you love.

Have a blast. Have fun each day, even if it is just for a few minutes. Whatever you choose, be sure to laugh even if it is at yourself. So, until we meet again, fill your life with memories rather than regrets. Enjoy life and stay on top of your game.

NB: Columnist welcomes feedback at deedee21bastian@gmail.com

Ms Bastian is a professionally-trained graphic designer who has qualifications of M.Sc., B.Sc., A.Sc. She has trained at institutions such as: Miami Lakes Technical Centre, Success Training College, College of the Bahamas, Nova Southeastern University, Learning Tree International, Langevine International and Synergy Bahamas.