If life doesn't exist without stress then there's no chance of working without stress either. Limiting stress in the workplace, however, is possible.

One important rule to remember . . . separate your personal stress from your professional stress. It won't be easy but it will be beneficial.

Every form of employment has stress attached to it: from the hotdog cart attendant to the CEO of a billion dollar industry; they each suffer variations of stress. The objective then, is to limit as much stress as possible before entering your workplace. In other words, clear your mind for the new group of stressors you're about to face.

While the idea of following this rule may cause a stressor in itself, it will be a manageable and tolerable stress once your mind is trained in the process. Limiting stress in the workplace will also lead to less stress at home.

Why? Or how does one lead to the other? Simply because mastery of this rule yields rewards both directions. Reducing stress in one or two areas makes life easier overall.

Employees and entrepreneurs dedicated to their career may find this task of stress limiting a bit more difficult. You're often barely aware of the stressors at home because you've allowed work to engulf your very being. This means you must learn a new skill.

One suggestion is to make a list of events that are fundamental to your job or even your duties at home. After all, if you know you must answer phones, attend a weekly staff meeting, or mow the lawn each week then why waste time worrying about it or stressing over it? Accept them as facts of life. This doesn't mean you have to love them or even like them. But accepting them and not allowing yourself to fret is an effective way to be limiting stress in the workplace and at home.

When you limit the number of tasks that add to your stress level you gain a great deal. You'll have more time to reflect on serious factors that deserve your energy. And your physical health will also benefit – even if you don't realize it in the short run.

Another suggestion is to take a few minutes to meditate every morning and evening. Choose a place you like to spend time in. And the time of day doesn't matter – whatever works best for you and your lifestyle.

Some people on the other hand find it most beneficial to do this near the end of the day to clear their head and help them sleep better. It is best to relieve the stress of the day before you drift into slumber land because despite what you think, sleep alone will not help you awaken clearheaded.

If your body has already been impacted by stress then your sleeping patterns have changed. Not only are you wielding the stressors of the day you're also facing the demons in your dreams. The result is waking up the next morning feeling even more agitated and tired.

So, dealing with the expected stressors your job creates on a daily basis is attainable.

But what about those thankfully infrequent unexpected stressors thrown at you in an instance? I’m talking about someone you care about gets sick, injured, or some other significant event. These are harder to prepare for and they certainly impact your work.

This is when your skills at limiting stress in the workplace for "routine" and expected events pays off.

And it's also when you must rely on your employer or support group for guidance and understanding. You'll most likely need time away from your workplace, time for you to pay full attention to your personal life. Tragic events can be fatal to a career.

They're not as simple to fix as a broken copier or a downed computer. Life-changing events will happen and when they do you'll need to limit all unneeded stress. Don't allow that choice to make you feel less superior.

Think about what stresses you. Make a list if you have to and then cross everything off that truly is minor. Take time to relax each and every day. Take a walk and breathe the air. And remember, limiting stress in the workplace means you'll enjoy more of life.