106 — Get Instant Stress Relief by Gaining Psychological Distance from Your Problems

It’s probably second nature to get some physical distance from something stressing you out when you can. But what about those times when you can’t? You can’t run away from a traffic jam or physically escape bad news.
 
Fortunately, you can always get psychological distance. Some things you’ll learn are strategies for gaining psychological distance, when to use this tool, and how to make it most effective.

Key Takeaways:

• Stress cannot and should not be entirely eliminated; managing it constructively is key.
• Physical distance from stressors is a common intuitive response, but psychological distance is a strategy when physical distance isn’t possible.
• Psychological distance can be achieved by ‘time traveling,’ observing oneself from an external perspective, or visiting a mental happy place.
• The use of psychological distance should be a temporary measure rather than an avoidance tactic.
• Managing stress with psychological distance provides a fresh perspective and can result in better emotional control and decision-making.