So how was your day? Fabulous, or undeniable rotten? Everyone has both, but here are some tips to make lemonade when life hands you lemons...

• Identify the source of your anxiety: Merely acknowledging that something bothers you is often enough to make it bother you less. Reevaluate what bothers you. Maybe you are misinterpreting the situation.
• Look at the other side of the coin: If your stress is caused by someone else, attempt to see their side of the issue. Consider pressure they may be under, and look for other reasons why they could be upset.
• Distract yourself from the problem: Put one foot in front of the other and start on something new. Your upset will soon fade. If you must come back to the problematic project, set aside another time.
• Gain some perspective: A famous relief pitcher was once asked how he kept his cool when he was brought into a difficult situation. His reply: " I just remember that in a few hundred years, nobody will care whether I give up a home run or strike the guy out." Or how about the current catch phrase made famous by a best-selling book: Don’t sweat the small stuff. . . And it’s ALL small stuff." Such an attitude can only help you relax.

Source: Allen EAP