A planning journal is a useful tool for reducing stress -- both at home and  in the workplace.

Create a professional, personal, and family mission statement.

Corporations use mission statements and so can you. Write down a list of your goals: learn public speaking, increase your friendships.

As you do things, check to see how well they fit your written plan. Remember that changing situations on your job (like getting a promotion, downsizing, or a new boss) can add to stress.

Write down your thoughts and feelings when things like this occur. This will help you to clarify issues that are going on in your life.

Don’t rely on your memory. Write down appointment times and important dates. Include activities outside of the job, like doctors’ appointments, birthdays, or your child’s school play.

Block out time in your planner for relaxation, watch a movie or visit a friend. Also schedule time to do nothing. Everyone needs to have quiet time.

List activities and deadlines for the week, and review these first thing on Monday morning. They should be reviewed every day to measure your progress. On your list of things to do, face the unpleasant tasks early in the day and get them done. You will feel better.

Learn to say no to extra projects and social invitations.

By using your planner as a guide, you can see where you are over scheduling yourself. Write out a list of your latest successes. Include things that you do best, your values, dreams, and accomplishments. Remember—for everything that goes wrong, there are some blessings. Look back in your planner and count them!