Is the stress of running your business during this prolonged business downturn really getting to you?

This recession has kicked most business people right in the gut.  Maybe you feel that way too.

Yet now, more than ever, it’s important to stay focused, think strategically and remain positive no matter how difficult the business environment may be.

In order to do that, you need to effectively manage your level of stress.

And I know it’s easier said than done but…

Stress is usually the result of fear.  So to reduce your stress, you need to manage your fear. Otherwise, the stress created by fear will paralyze you and prevent you from achieving your business goals

Ask yourself:  What are you afraid of?  From a business point of view, fear actually means you are uncertain about the future.  You don’t know what to do next.

When you’re overwhelmed and not thinking clearly and you don’t know what to do, that’s when fear steps in and prevents you from moving forward and solving the problem.

Here’s a 4 step formula to help you handle your fear and stress:

1)      Define the problem.

2)      Create a solution to the problem.

3)      Put the solution in action.

4)      Evaluate whether your solution takes you in the right direction.

If you find, you’re not going in the right direction, start over at step one and work through the four steps again until you solve your problem.

Stress is created by fear.  Fear of the unknown.

In this recession there have been so many unknowns and this has only added to your normal daily business stress.

There’s two types of fear – positive and negative.

If you use fear in a negative way, you will panic, be unproductive and not lead your company in the direction it needs to go.

If you use fear in a positive way, it can actually be your ally by helping you define the problem, find the solution and accomplish your goals.

The first thing to do when you sense fear is to ask yourself:  What is this coming from?  Is this real or irrational thought?  If it’s irrational thought, learn to recognize it and push it aside.  If it’s real, don’t hesitate to be in action.

Once you walk through the fear the next time you face a similar situation you will be better prepared to deal with it because you have more knowledge and experience and will know what to do.

I have created a free video series exclusively for CEOs, company presidents and business owners entitled, How Your Business Can Survive, And Prosper, In The Recession, that discusses various topics and business strategies on the minds of business people during this recession including How To Deal With Your Business Stress.  You can sign up for the free video series on my blog.