There are plenty of legitimate sources of stress in our lives that we can’t avoid, but we pile a lot more on top that we could really do without.
If you want to live a more peaceful and less anxiety-inducing existence, you have to know what to cut out of your life once and for all. Here are some things that you’re letting stress you out when you could just as easily say, “No more!”
1. It’s time to stop doomscrolling through social media.
Endless scrolling through social media can be a major source of anxiety and comparison. The constant stream of curated highlight reels and negative news can leave you feeling inadequate and stressed. Set limits on your social media use, unfollow accounts that trigger negative emotions, and prioritise real-life connections instead.
2. It’s best to avoid overcommitting yourself and learn to say no.
Saying yes to every request or invitation can lead to a packed schedule and a feeling of overwhelm. It’s okay to prioritise your own needs and say no to things that don’t align with your priorities or bring you joy. Remember, your time and energy are precious resources.
3. It can be helpful to let go of perfectionism and embrace imperfection.
Striving for perfection in every aspect of your life is a recipe for stress and burnout. Embrace the fact that mistakes happen, and it’s okay not to be perfect all the time. Focus on progress, not perfection, and give yourself permission to be human.
4. You should try to declutter your physical and digital spaces.
A cluttered environment can contribute to a cluttered mind. Take some time to declutter your home, workspace, and digital devices. Donate or discard items you no longer need, organise your files and folders, and create a sense of calm and order in your surroundings.
5. It’s important to establish healthy sleep habits and prioritise rest.
Source: Unsplash Sleep deprivation can wreak havoc on your physical and mental health, leading to increased stress and irritability. Aim for 7–8 hours of quality sleep each night, establish a consistent sleep schedule, and create a relaxing bedtime routine to promote restful sleep.
6. You MUST try to limit your exposure to negative news and media.
The constant barrage of negative news can be overwhelming and anxiety-inducing. While it’s important to stay informed, you also need to be mindful of how much negativity you’re consuming. Limit your exposure to news sources that trigger stress and anxiety, and look for positive and uplifting content instead.
7. It can be helpful to practice mindfulness and meditation to reduce stress and anxiety.
Mindfulness and meditation can help you cultivate a sense of inner peace and calm, even in the midst of chaos. Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breath, observe your thoughts and feelings without judgement, and simply be present in the moment. These practices can help you manage stress more effectively and improve your overall well-being.
8. It’s a good idea to spend time in nature and connect with the outdoors.
Spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve mood, and boost creativity. Make time for walks in the park, hikes in the countryside, or simply sitting in your garden and enjoying the fresh air. Connecting with the natural world can be a powerful antidote to the stresses of modern life.
9. You need to stop comparing yourself to other people and focus on your own journey.
Source: Unsplash Comparison is the thief of joy. Constantly comparing yourself to other people, whether it’s their achievements, possessions, or lifestyles, will inevitably stress you out and make you feel inadequate. Focus on your own journey, celebrate your unique strengths and accomplishments, and remember that everyone’s path is different.
10. You should try to cultivate healthy coping mechanisms for dealing with stress.
Source: Unsplash Find healthy ways to manage stress that work for you. Exercise releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting effects. Journaling can help you process your emotions and gain clarity. Creative outlets, such as painting, music, or writing, can provide a healthy distraction and a sense of accomplishment.
11. It’s important to stop setting unrealistic expectations for yourself and other people.
Setting unrealistic expectations for yourself or anyone else can lead to disappointment and stress. Be kind to yourself and recognise your limitations. Communicate your expectations clearly to people, and be willing to compromise and adjust your expectations as needed.
12. You might want to limit your exposure to toxic people and relationships.
Toxic relationships can drain your energy and contribute to chronic stress. Identify the people in your life who bring negativity, drama, or conflict, and consider limiting your contact with them or setting boundaries to protect your emotional well-being.
13. It’s a good practice to learn to say “I don’t know” and embrace uncertainty.
Source: Unsplash Feeling pressured to have all the answers or be in control all the time can be a major source of stress. It’s okay to admit when you don’t know something, or to embrace the uncertainty of life. Let go of the need for control and allow yourself to be open to new possibilities.
14. You could try to practice gratitude and focus on the positive aspects of your life.
Source: Unsplash Cultivating a sense of gratitude can shift your perspective and reduce stress. Take time each day to reflect on the things you’re thankful for, big and small. Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can help you appreciate what you have and cultivate a sense of contentment.
