I recently went to the doctor with an inexplicable stomach pain that had persisted for several days. After a brief examination, he provided his diagnosis: "It's probably stress". I have to admit that I was disappointed with the verdict, as I was hoping that he would find a more concrete cause that could be easily resolved with the prescription of drugs. Instead, I was going to have to take a look at my life-style and try to make some changes. I do have a demanding new boss, and I have recently had a slight disagreement with a sibling, but I hadn't really considered myself to be stressed about either issue. When I think about it, I don't really know anybody who doesn't suffer from stress. 

We all have problems that can make us feel stressed, but the difference is in how we manage that stress. Apparently, some of us are better at taking charge of our thoughts, feelings, schedule, and the way we deal with problems than others. Some people are able to remain calm and in control despite the demands and pressures of everyday life. 

I went to talk to a life-style counsellor, who presented me with several suggestions. Firstly, I could try to take control of my environment by eliminating unnecessary stresses. Clearly, I wouldn't be able to eradicate my boss or my brother. However, I could avoid travelling in a crammed train carriage every morning by getting up 10 minutes earlier. I tried it for a few days, and surprisingly enough I already felt a lot more in control.

Secondly, I should try to adopt a healthier life-style. We all know that a healthy diet and regular exercise make us thinner and fitter, but I wasn't aware that they could also help to eliminate stress. I decided to start with some small changes, such as cutting out sweets and desserts, and taking the stairs instead of the lift. Again, I immediately felt that these small changes were making a positive difference. 

Perhaps the most important advice of all was to learn to accept the things that I couldn't change. I started to think of my challenges as opportunities for personal growth. I would start to expect less of people and accept that no one is perfect, least of all myself. 

A couple of days ago, I met with my friend Sandra and told her of the changes I had made to try to conquer my stress. I realised that talking and laughing about it with Sandra made me feel far better than any of my other actions. May be it's OK to be stressed as long as there is a friend to share it with.

Which of the following statements is not true?

Learning to cry upon the things that can be changed can make a person perfect

I decided to start with some small changes, such as cutting out sweets and desserts, and taking the stairs instead of the lift. Again, I immediately felt that these small changes were making a positive difference.

I started to think of my challenges as opportunities for personal growth. I would start to expect less of people and accept that no one is perfect, least of all myself.

 I realised that talking and laughing about it with Sandra made me feel far better than any of my other actions.