Now, not tomorrow, is the time to change your life and view it in a different light. A week is not very long and I'm not going to pretend you will be a changed person in a week but it's a good start on the way to a happier, less stressed life.

There are heaps of methods to 'self improvement' and 'positive thinking' – each with it's own merits and drawbacks. What works for one, won't necessarily be the best for someone else. So here is a list of many different things you can do – choose the ones that make the most sense to you. BUT, and it is a big but – you need to take action for any of these methods to work.

Avoid Stressful People

I have heard these referred to as "stress sneezers" (they sneeze out contagious stress). Avoid them, they are no good for you – if someone makes you feel stressful don't be around them. If you continuously feel worse after being around someone, then that is not a healthy relationship and needs to be avoided.

Learn From The Best

Instead find people who are positive to be around. Surround yourself with happy people and learn how they beat stresses.

Breathe

"Breathe? Of course I'm breathing – wouldn't be stressing if I wasn't". No but breathe deeply and slowly. When ever you feel your stress levels rising just breathe in slowly for a count of 5 and exhale to a count of 10. Repeat several times.

Have Purpose

Have a purpose to your life and know it. It's easy to just talk about it but to make any impact on your life you need to take action.

Stop stress thoughts.

As soon as you start to feel the signs of stress – stop. Stop worrying about "What if". Stop yourself and counter with positive outcome what if's.

Sleep it off.

A lack of sleep can make you more susceptible to stress. Make sure you get a good night's sleep.

Take these points into account and discover a new less stressed "you".

For more information on stress relief tips visit Higher-Self-Improvement-Pursuits.com.