Stress management tips usually focus on lifestyle choices (which are frustrating to hear about when you're in the middle of it) or on techniques to calm you down. Some of them work better than others, and the best of all both work to helping you regain a sense of calm right then and there, and they also bring long-term relief by making you more resilient in stressful situations.

Here's a powerful 4-step process that fits into that latter category: Make a list of your accomplishments. I have done versions of that before, but the person who truly turned that into an art is Bill Bartmann who has lived through his share of stress, going from homeless to billionaire, with some staggering back and forth in between. His technique goes into far more depth than any I have ever seen before.

Here's an easy version, the one I've been using in various ways over the years.

1. Write it down

Take a notepad and write down everything you can think of that you have accomplished. Anything you're proud of. Even the little things. Carry that notepad around with you for a few days and keep adding to your list.

2. Enhance your list: what about YOU made this possible?

Now go back to that list and add what about you and who you are made this possible. For example, if you achieved something that took quite a bit of work, write down, you have persistence and an ability and willingness to do the work it takes to follow through. Or maybe it's courage, vision, resourcefulness, your brilliant brain, or your ability to connect with people that helped you do whatever it was you have on your list. Write it down.

3. Brag a bit

Go ahead and brag a bit. If you have trouble coming up with your positive qualities, just ask your friends or family -- but make sure you only ask people who like you and are supportive of you. Ask them.

4. Review your list often

Type up the resulting list, print it out, and review it often. Every night wouldn't be too much. Or maybe you prefer to do it in the morning, or both. Remember to review your list especially when you're stressed. Take it out to remind yourself you have overcome a lot of hurdles in your life and that you can handle this one as well.