Stress has a tendency to sneak up on people. Get to know your body and heed its warnings of "overload."  The following tips can help you deal with stress in your life.

Be good to your body.

	Eat well and get adequate rest
	Exercise daily.  A brisk morning, noon or evening walk can be revitalizing both physically and mentally.
	Learn and practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, stretching or meditation.

Is your cup half full or half empty?

	Become aware of habitual negative thinking patterns and make an effort to change them.
	Set aside at least 10 uninterrupted minutes a day for yourself.
	Make an effort to see the positive and humorous side of life.

Don't let money manage you.

	Develop a realistic budget and stick to it.
	If you have money management problems, seek help from a financial counselor.
	Communicate openly with your partner about money issues.
	Teach your children how to make good, age-appropriate decisions about money.
	Don't base your self worth on your financial worth.

Be a good parent, not a perfect one.

	Take time to have fun with your children.
	Don't try to be perfect.  Do the best you can and have confidence in your decisions.
	Set clear, consistent rules, but be flexible.
	Communicate with your partner about children's issues and support each other's decisions.

Nurture your relationship with your partner - communicate.

	Listen to your partner.  Don't assume you know what he/she is thinking and feeling.
	Share problems and admit mistakes and weaknesses.
	Deal openly and honestly about sexual issues.
	Set aside time for just the two of you.
	Seek professional help for difficult problems.

Organize your way to a happy home. 

	Make a list of household responsibilities and divide chores among family members.
	Maintain a calendar of activities so everyone knows what's coming up and what they have to do.
	Set priorities.  Don't worry about dishes in the sink or dust bunnies under the bed.
	Know your limits and learn to say no.