Don't Let Anxiety Get the Best of You

It's been a weird few days for me.  I felt like I have anxiety but I couldn't pinpoint the reason.  At first I was thinking that I couldn't pinpoint the reason because maybe I have spread myself too thin by being involved in so many things.  Then I thought maybe the reason I have anxiety is because I'm involved in so many things.

I've always taken on lots of tasks at work and I've also volunteered a lot.  So what makes this time so different?  I'm not sure.  Maybe it's the additional weight of having a business that rests solely on my shoulders.  I have help but the responsibility is still mine whether it succeeds or fails.

Normally, I don't feel the anxiety because I usually balance out my nervousness and stress with exercise.  For the last month or so, I haven't been able to run and that's my main way to relieve stress.  I usually run until it's gone.  Faster, farther until I feel tired and relaxed.

But now, it's not an option for me.  My mistake is that I didn't have a backup plan.  I relied on running and took it for granted.

Now, my stress levels have gotten higher than expected.  I didn't see it coming.  Now, that anxiety is trying to take over, it's time for some action to combat it.

First, I'm going to take some much needed time off.  I think an extended weekend should be a good start.  Then I'm going to reflect on all the things that I think are causing me stress and look for ways to balance everything better.  Lastly, I'm going to the gym.  Even though I can't run at the moment, I can do other things like weight lifting and riding a stationary bike.  I hope the bikes are ready to handle the stress and anxiety I'm about to release on them.

In closing, I'd just like to say, don't let anxiety or stress get the best of you.  There are lots of ways to relieve it.  You just have to find what works for you.  Once you find methods you enjoy, make sure you have backup options because you never know when one of your stress relief options may not be available.  You are ultimately in control.  It's up to you to recognize it and correct before it's too late!


Other articles you may enjoy:

Don't Miss It Until It's Gone

We All Get Lost Sometimes

Anger Management: Don't Kick The Cat!

Prevent Burn Out

Prevent Burn Out

It's good to be motivated!  It's great to be a hard worker.  Along with all the effort, you also have to take some time to relax and recharge your batteries from time to time.  It doesn't help if you constantly push yourself to the burn out point.   I know from experience.  Sometimes, it's very hard to recover.  What do you think about when you see this picture?

Prevent Burn Out

Most people would probably think that looks pretty cool.  If you're thinking that looks awesome right now or that you could really use a vacation, you may want to be careful.  It sounds like you may have a lot of stress in your life.  You probably need to take a vacation.  It doesn't have to be this elaborate and expensive.  You may just need a few days away.  Sometimes the weekend is just not long enough.  Think about coordinating with your boss to take an extended weekend occasionally.  This may prevent burn out.

Prevent Burn Out

You should also think about what relaxes you.  Identify stress relievers and take time to use them.  I'm a NBA 2K (video game) player.  I like basketball and it relaxes me to play after work.  If I'm having a bad day, and then I lose the game, it adds to my stress.  Therefore, I have other activities that help me relax and prevent burn out.  They include running, driving, going to the beach, listening to music, and of course blogging.

We all have so much we want to accomplish.  At times, the mountain looks too large to tackle.  Some days, you just feel like you're in quicksand.  The more you fight, the more you sink.  Remember, you're not alone.  That is the most important thing to keep in mind to prevent burn out.  Don't let your stress cause you to lash out at those closest to you.

If you're an overachiever, that's a good thing.  Keep doing what you're doing, just know your limits.  I've seen too many hard workers with ailments from pushing too hard.  Some people don't realize the impact stress can have on their health until it's too late.  Take the time now to prevent burn out for a happy, healthy life.

Prevent Burn Out