Do This To Reduce Your Stress Now

Remember that thing you freaked out about last week? That you were having mild panic attacks, you thought the world could end, you’d never make it to that place in time, you’d never finish the project, or you were super stressed that girl was pissed at you?

Remember that time?

Nah, probably not.

What I’ve realized is that we spend far too much energy creating stress out of issues that will — before you know it — become a moot point.

I’m used to be super guilty of this, and engaging in hypothetical what-if’s are insane stress inducers with no value to your life.

Next time, try this:

If you’re stressing or panicking you’re not going to get a project done before the deadline (this could be for work, home improvement, anything)… remind yourself: you will. You will figure out a way to get done. We always do.

Plus, thanks to email and text, we’re so used to instant responses that a slow response can make us feel anxious or start running through imaginary stories in our head.

Don’t pretend you don’t know what I mean. Half of my conversations with girlfriends are running through imaginary scenarios that will never become reality (mine included).

Free yourself from that. In most instances the person replies eventually, all without realizing our frantic stress-fest.

Are you panicking about an upcoming meeting or doctor appointment?

The same logical applies.

Do not stress until you need to.

In a few hours that meeting or appointment will be over, often times with nothing to worry about. And, if there is something to worry about: worry about it then. Sure, it’s worth being cautious, but don’t freak. It doesn’t serve anyone.

You can’t change the inevitable.

I promise you there is no value in expending negative energy and time in this way.

Reduce your stress and lighten your heart.

What you can do instead?

Make a list of what you’re grateful for (a daily gratitude journal is a great place to start!); accomplish something on your to-do list; get to the gym; or do something that gives you a sense of control and happiness.