6 common life stress-triggers and how to overcome them.
We are surrounded by a culture that promotes tenacity. Being constantly reminded of "perfect" life of others on social media leads to setting unrealistic goals and constant pressure to do better, to reach further, to archive more. But sometimes letting go is the best choice for our well-being.
1. A relationship that's well past it's stale date.
Being single can be lonely and dating can feel like the worst, but neither of those things are worse than being with someone who doesn’t treat you well.
- Be your true self.
- Listen to concerns from friends and family.
- Make decisions for yourself.
2. Putting off health checkups.
If you can’t quite remember the last time you made it to the doctor for your annual checkup, you’re missing a huge opportunity to take your health into your own hands.
Seeing your doctor at least once a year should really be non-negotiable.
Set up a reminder on your phone or even ask your family to remind you once in a while to make that call for your appointment.
3. People pleasing.
While being kind and helpful is generally a good thing, going too far to please others can have serious risks. It can leave you feeling emotionally depleted, stressed, and anxious. If it seems like someone is asking for too much, don't be afraid to let them know that it's over the bounds of what you are willing to do and that you won't be able to help.
Every time you take a small step away from being a people-pleaser, you'll gain greater confidence that will help you take back control of your life.
Start by saying no to smaller requests. Or try expressing your opinion about something small or request something that you need.
4. Multitasking.
Multitasking can set off chronic stress and slow you down, shredding productivity. In fact, trying to complete two or more tasks at once can take 40 percent more time or longer. Instead create more structure to your work. Perform highly creative tasks in the morning and then take a short break before moving on to each different task.
If you have a complicated task, it requires all your attention, and if you're trying to spread your attention over multiple tasks, it's not going to work.
Learn how to release stress in your daily life simply by avoiding multitasking. Do not interrupt your tasks until you finish each of them, and then you can move to the next one.
5. A job that numbs your spirit.
Toxic workplaces can lead to stress, burnouts and serious disruptions in your normal life.
Understanding what makes it a toxic workplace can help you know what to look for in future positions to avoid similar problems.
Working in a toxic environment can be physically and mentally draining. As you continue to look for new job opportunities, take time each day to do something for yourself. This could be meditating, exercising, reading, playing piano, going for a walk, or spending time with friends.
6. Accepting less than what you want.
Did you take the easy choice to avoid a confrontation, even though it conflicted with your views and beliefs? Or did you stand your ground, and make the right choice for yourself? When we have to make a decision like this, the choices can often be clear, because our "heart" tells us what is right and what is wrong. Many of us let situations get out of control because we want to be polite and not "rock the boat." But there's a big difference between being nice, and not speaking up because we're afraid or unsure. Listen to your instincts in these situations.
Sometimes it's best to defend yourself, or someone else, and not be so concerned about being nice.
If you have confidence in the logical and factual side of your argument or beliefs, it will be easier to stand your ground. So make sure that you have all of the information you need.
Sorry, not sorry.
And finally - quit apologizing for things that aren't your responsibility, learn to take a breath before you allow the word to cross your lips. When you can, replace “sorry" with "thank you", as in: "Thank you for bringing this to my attention".