Constantly stressing out about problems and issues will get you nowhere, and if you ponder the situation too long, it will definitely result in major anxiety. Don't misunderstand—I'm not saying you should avoid problems, but you can remind yourself during rough times that you can still find compromises and solutions in almost any situation.

When you can’t physically go to your ‘happy place,’ a quick mental vacation can do wonders for your stress. Visualize one of the most relaxing scenes you can imagine – a beach, the top of a mountain, your favorite chair in the living room, or any other place you'd love to be.

Remember the Odds

One of the truisms I always remind myself of is the fact that, normally, events work out in some fashion. Think about how many transactions you've had that looked like they would go sour. In most cases, those deals probably worked out, even if they didn't go as perfectly as you might have hoped.

Most transactions will hit a snag here and there, but generally deals do get done.

Stress can’t be eliminated, but it can be managed. Try these remedies if you’re going into overload.

1. Get to know your stress triggers. Inventory your activities for a week, noting the circumstances and people that cause you stress. Just knowing a situation causes you stress can reduce its impact.
2. Exercise regularly. Set aside time at least twice a week for strenuous physical exercise. Exercise releases endorphins, stretches and relaxes muscles, and invigorates the mind and body.
3. Take minivacations. Plan for downtime every day. Once in a while, call in “well” and take a day off to play.
4. Abandon the 24/7 workweek. Consider disconnecting your pager and asking clients not to call you after 7 p.m., except in emergencies.
5. Look at the positive aspects of your job. You’re your own boss. You work long hours, but you can take off at 4 p.m. to coach your daughter’s soccer team.

A willingness to laugh at yourself sometimes can also serve as a good reminder not to take life so seriously, which can do wonders for your stress level.

Rather than thinking the situation will never get better, remind yourself that it eventually will improve. It may not be in the next few months, or even until the next year or two, but the real estate market will recuperate and make lasting progress. Understanding that better days are ahead allows you to keep going a little farther.