Alter

One of the most helpful things you can do during times of stress is to take inventory, then attempt to change your situation for the better.

• Respectfully ask others to change their behavior. And be willing to do the same. Small problems often create larger ones if they aren't resolved. If you're tired of being the target of a friend's jokes at parties, ask him or her to leave you out of the comedy routine. In return, be willing to enjoy his or her other jokes and thank him or her for humoring you. Focus on addressing the behavior or issue that bothers you and avoid attacking the person. For example, say "I really did not appreciate what you said about me at that gathering."
• Communicate your feelings openly. Remember to use "I" statements, as in, "I feel frustrated by shorter deadlines, a heavier workload or working long hours when I'm working from home. Is there something we can do to balance things out?"
• Manage your time better. Lump together similar tasks — group your phone calls, car errands and computer-related tasks. The reward of increased efficiency will be extra time.
• State limits in advance. Instead of stewing over a colleague's nonstop chatter or messages, politely start the conversation with, "I've got only five minutes to cover this" or let them know you're busy but will get back to them later. Or say, "I have a break for a few minutes. How can I help you?" Or set times when you won't be checking your email. For example, let colleagues know you won't be checking email after work hours.