Stress and Arthritis.

Last updated Tuesday, January 04, 2005

Accept what you can't change

Change yourself, not others

Realize that you can change only yourself, not other people.

Many people spend too much time and energy trying to reform their spouses, children or doctors. They want to make them different, or to have them act in a certain way. When these changes don't happen, people tend to feel frustrated, tense, and upset. No one has the power to change another person. When people change, it's generally because they wanted to do so.

Accept imperfection

Have the courage to be imperfect. Stop trying to be the ideal parent, spouse, child, patient, employee, or boss. No one is perfect! Trying to be perfect is admirable, but doing so takes its toll on your time, energy, and the way you feel about yourself.

Realize that life isn't always fair. Drugs have side effects, doctors may sometimes be grouchy, and families don't always understand.

Try to "roll with the punches." Being flexible helps you keep a positive attitude, despite hardships.

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