The Key to Less Stress and Fatigue in Your Life

Talking about stress often makes it worse. Each time you mention being stressed, you increase your tension and weariness. The simple act of labeling an event or task with the word "stress" can drain the joy from it, turning once delightful activities into sources of fatigue.

This constant focus on stress not only steals your energy and enthusiasm but can also stunt your personal growth.

In today's world, many people report feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. Events that should be enjoyable, like birthdays or holidays, often change into stressors. Listening in on therapy groups can reveal common sentiments. Participants might express feelings like:

"My birthday stresses me out." "The holidays are stressful." "I dread the tension of family gatherings."


This raises the question: When did we start associating so many aspects of life with stress? Why does it seem like we are stuck in a cycle of stress?

The connection we have with stress has become ingrained in our daily lives. Whenever you say you are stressed, it reinforces an idea in your mind. Stress starts to overshadow positivity, transforming experiences into burdens. It is worthwhile to reflect on how language shapes our lives.

Professional athletes, for example, avoid using the word “stress.” Instead, they describe their situations as challenges or responsibilities. Positive language allows them to stay energized and engaged. Phrases such as “I’m excited for the game,” or “I can’t wait to compete” create a sense of anticipation rather than dread.

In contrast, the word "stress" can weaken your resolve. It can make you feel powerless, as if you are merely reacting to circumstances instead of taking control.

A leading contributor to stress is internal conflict. When you find yourself doing things you don't want to do, resentment builds up. This chronic reluctance, especially in the workplace, often leads to feelings of stress. Many people express being stressed due to their jobs. They feel trapped in roles that don't fulfill them. Similarly, managers who try to micromanage their teams often end up spreading stress to others.

Some individuals in high-pressure careers, like finance or sales, mistakenly believe that stress is essential for success. They feel that stress aids their performance, even when it is unnecessary. This mindset creates a cycle of unnecessary stress that takes a toll. It impacts their well-being and relationships, often without them realizing the costs.

I recall working with a stockbroker who insisted that stress was beneficial for him. He claimed he thrived under pressure and enjoyed the feeling of being stressed. Yet, this perspective often leads to consequences that harm both personal and professional life.

Understanding the effects of language around stress can pave the way for a healthier mindset and better experiences.

---