The 5 Bypass Activity

My father retired many years ago from a high stress, high pressure job as an executive at the leading TV and Radio stations in our market. Very shortly thereafter he had a massive heart attack. Five bypasses later, he recovered. But it was very scary for all of us.

Although there were probably many contributing factors to his heart attack, I believe stress was the fuel.

How long has it been since you checked your stress level? Here is something you may consider if you feel an overwhelming amount of pressure.

Pull out a piece of paper and evaluate the stress sources. I call this the 5 Bypass Activity.

What is causing your stress? Rank these in order of highest stress factor to lowest.

1. Is it your job? (Specific projects or people?)

2. Is it your family (Problems with your children, spouse, or parents?)

3. Is it a church responsibility? (Not enough time to accomplish it all?)

4. Is it volunteer responsibilities? (Concerns about the welfare of others outside your immediate control?)

5. Is it something else? (Something within or without of your control?)

Once you have these identified, it will be clearer to evaluate possible solutions to these problems.