Get Plenty of Rest. When you skimp on sleep, your ability to handle stressful emotions decreases. Small problems can send you over the edge more quickly.

Prioritize the demands on your time. By overcommitting, you have fewer inner resources to cope with challenges. Figure out what activities are really essential and concentrate on those.

Know yourself. Things in the past (an unfaithful spouse, a miscarriage) color your reactions to current events. Knowing your prejudices can help you recognize inappropriate responses.

Acknowledge your anger. That doesn't mean yelling obscenities. Instead, explore your feelings in a journal. Recognizing negative emotions can help you dispel them.

Distract yourself from stress. Call a good friend, head out for a walk, or rent a funny movie.

Don't sweat the small stuff. It can be tempting to react angrily when someone cuts you off on the highway or snubs you at a party. But stewing over minor insults will only impede your happiness.

Limit your frustration. If you've suffered a blow like getting passed over for a job, allow yourself to feel hurt and angry. But limit it and get on with your life.

Develop an inner applause meter. Your spouse, kids and boss won't always appreciate you, so call their attention to major efforts. But sometimes the satisfaction of a job well done is its own reward.

Get plenty of exercise. A brisk half-hour on the treadmill boosts feel-good brain chemicals.

Eat healthy. Comfort foods high in fat and sugar may reduce stress hormones in the short run. But in the long term, a well-balanced diet contributes to a better brain chemistry and emotional stability.