We know that most individuals surviving cancer will try many complementary and alternative options to lengthen their lives. But did you know that studies have shown that women surviving breast cancer can double their survival time if they are involved in a close, intimate support network?

These and many other studies confirm fact that healthier relationships lead to better health, emotionally, physically and spiritually. Most of us did not learn effective interpersonal skills at home. So why do so few individuals consider relationship skills training right from start, before stress becomes chronic? Probably because we haven’t been made aware of facts.

The good news is that anyone can improve their relationships through learning simple skills including active or reflective listening, conflict resolution, behavioral changes, and thought management, among others. If you want less stress, and more fun and fulfillment in your life, consider exploring options for relationship skill building.

Whether relationship is past or present, personal or professional, you can make it better and get healthier in process.

If we have financial problems, we worry about retirement, mortgage, 401k, just paying bills. We ruminate about worst that could happen. We fear possible losses. We develop anxiety and ulcers. Existing illness worsens.

If we feel angry about past events, our parents or our former spouse, we think about injustices, we fan flames. We ruminate, become resentful and bitter. Dangerous stress hormones pour into our system. We develop heart disease or gastrointestinal problems.

Of course it’s always easier to run to gym and work out, rather than run home and work out our problems.

It’s easier to sit in corner by ourselves and meditate, rather than sit at financial counselor’s office and struggle to work out a budget.

What can you do? Gather your courage and identify and face specific issues that are causing stress in your life. You can reduce stress, enhance relationships, simplify your life and feel healthier and happier.

Follow these four steps to live a healthier, happier life.

1.Identify source of problem.

2.Decide what needs to be done to resolve problem.

3.Develop a step-by-step plan to achieve desired goal.

4.Follow through one step at a time.

If you need help with any of steps, get it. There are excellent resources in area to help you with any problem that may be causing you stress. Determine for 2004 to begin a new life with less stress and more fun.

©Pat Swan, M.S., Life and Relationship Coach, http://www.RelationshipSkillville.com . Pat is a speaker, and author of “Watch Out! Your Relationships Can Be Hazardous to Your Health,” available at http:// www.StopRelationshipStress.com . Stop relationship stress and discover secret remedies for better health. Mailto:pat@patswan.com . PH: 262-642-5706.