Intentionally focusing conscious attention on the immediate actions you’re taking, preferably the immediate physical actions. Breathing, typing, moving papers, whatever it is.
The premise being that a lot of stress is produced by the mental process of prediction and thinking into the future or the past, and by redirecting attention the the areas where you are taking immediate action, you produce emotional reactions to the sensation of progress, instead of emotionally predicting the potential outcomes of the hypothetical future.
Note that this applies even if you are resting or relaxing — “all I have to do now is breathe”.
The premise being that a lot of stress is produced by the mental process of prediction and thinking into the future or the past, and by redirecting attention the the areas where you are taking immediate action, you produce emotional reactions to the sensation of progress, instead of emotionally predicting the potential outcomes of the hypothetical future.
Note that this applies even if you are resting or relaxing — “all I have to do now is breathe”.