Stress and anxiety often feel like two sides of the same coin, but they stem from different sources.
Anxiety is when your brain overreacts, making situations seem more threatening than they are.
Stress, on the other hand, comes from a realistic assessment of life’s challenges.
As I worked on managing my anxiety, I noticed my stress levels creeping up when I took on more responsibilities.
To maintain a healthy emotional balance, I made six key changes in my life:
1. Cutting Out the News
One of the first changes I made was cutting out the news. The constant negativity was overwhelming and only added to my stress. News outlets thrive on fear, and limiting my exposure became essential to managing my stress.
2. Letting Go of Watching Sports
I also stopped watching sports. My emotional investment in the outcomes was more stressful than relaxing. Letting go of this habit helped me regain control over my emotional well-being.
3. Getting Organized
Getting organized was another crucial step. Disorganization was a constant source of stress. By organizing my space, I saved time and reduced unnecessary anxiety.
4. Simplifying Possessions and Commitments
I also became more selective about what I bring into my life, both in terms of possessions and commitments. I stopped buying unnecessary items, which lightened my mental load and reduced clutter.
5. Learning to Say No
Overcommitting was another major stressor I addressed. I learned to say no to opportunities that didn’t align with my priorities, helping me avoid burnout.
6. Prioritizing Exercise
Finally, I made exercise non-negotiable. Physical activity is essential for mental health, and skipping workouts was a mistake I could no longer afford. Regular exercise keeps me grounded and better equipped to manage stress.
(If you’re struggling to implement changes in your life, this video may be a good place to start.)
- Scott
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