Stress Less, Live More

Book excerpt: I'm never going to finish this project on time. This is hopeless; everything's going wrong. Why do I try to do everything at once? A busy life is full of stressful situations — that's a given. But that doesn't mean there is nothing you can do. Your thoughts can actually affect the way your brain processes stress, for better or worse. Most of the time, our brains compound the problem, adding thoughts of self-doubt and frustration to already difficult situations. Stress Less, Live More presents a program based in acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) that can help you train your brain to react to stress in a different way. With the mindfulness and acceptance techniques in this book, you'll clear out mental clutter, enhance your focus, and concentrate on the present moment, so that you can channel your energy into what matters most to you. It's that simple. Learn to mindfully accept what can't be changed Find peace and contentment in the present moment Practice relaxation skills you can use to calm yourself in a crisis Make time for yourself by asserting your right to say 'no'