I wish someone could develop a personalized anti-stress app that works just like shock absorbers on my vehicle. These “stress absorbers” would protect me from the sudden jolts and unforeseen potholes of life that can cause so much damage.
Of course, that technology does not exist. And the truth is, I need a little stress in my life. It motivates me to get things accomplished in a reasonable amount of time instead of endlessly procrastinating. That sort of manageable stress also helps me set priorities to tackle the tough things first.
The fact is, we all have stress in our lives, but the stressors are not the same for everyone. You may not even need a stress-absorber for situations that guarantee me a jolt every time. One thing that tends to be the same for everyone, however, is the emotional stress that results when things catch us blindsided. The death of someone you love, unexpected job layoff, personal or family health concerns, financial distress, or a relationship crisis can send us on a downward spiral where stress overtakes us. And we often find that, it’s in this place, the stress of one event bleeds all over everything else in life.
Some people are able to steer their way through a crisis alone, but most of us need help. If you are going through an overwhelmingly stressful period in life, reaching out to a trusted friend, minister, or counselor can bring clarity and support. If you routinely make a to-do list, make sure your personal wellness is near the top. Take the steps you need to manage stress in your life.
