The 7 Habits of Stressed Out People

There are a number of habits that stressed out people tend to display time and again. Here are seven that not only indicate high levels of stress but ultimately keep feeding that stress over and over:

Failing to prioritize

Stressed out people often do not understand what they want from life and have therefore failed to prioritise what is important to them. This leads to them feeling frustrated and blaming others when their needs are not met. The problem is that this is a no-win situation because the stressed person has set himself up to fail. By working out your core values and priorities, you can set goals in accordance with these. You can then work out a clear plan to help you achieve your goals. This, in turn, will lead to increased self-confidence and reduced stress.

Being unable to say no

All too often we put others’ needs before our own. While it is hard to say no to someone you love, care about or respect, it is in fact vital to set boundaries or you will experience the feelings of resentment that so often cause unnecessary stress. Taking on too much leads to you feeling overloaded and unable to cope, both of which can result in you feeling completely stressed out. Learn to say no and you will find that other people respect you all the more for it.

Feeling unable to communicate

Letting your friends and family know when you are feeling stressed is key to lowering that stress and maintaining good relationships. Make time to sit down and explain how you are feeling and how others can help. They will appreciate you taking them into your confidence and, more often than not, will be eager to do what they can to lighten your load.

Criticising and blaming others

Criticism and blame are two of the most destructive things we can bring to any relationship. Arguments and disagreements are a normal part of everyday life but it is vital to keep criticism and blame out of them as much as possible. Learn to forgive and forget rather than poisoning yourself and your relationships with these two toxic habits.

Resisting change

Change is inevitable in life but it is when we resist it that we cause ourselves a great deal of unnecessary stress. Acceptance is key to a stress-free lifestyle. By learning to view change as an opportunity rather than a threat we can eliminate much of the stress associated with it.
Comparing ourselves with others
Constantly comparing ourselves with other people is destructive and stressful. It stops you focusing on your own talents, relationships and goals and often leads to lowered self esteem. Concentrate on what is happening in your life and remember that you never really know the truth of someone else’s situation.

Understanding your limits

A great deal of stress is caused by our failure to understand what we can and cannot control. In this case is wise to remember the words of the serenity prayer:

“God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.”