How Microstressors Are Affecting Our Well-Being & Tips to Manage Them. Issue # 57
The Little Stressors That Add Up: Understanding and Managing Microstressors.
Hey hey, how's it going?
I hope you're doing great!
I've got a super quick read for you today, so let's dive in!
I came across an interesting article in the Harvard Business Review that I wanted to share with you. It's about something called "microstressors" and how they can have a big impact on our well-being.
You might be wondering what exactly microstressors are.
They're those little stressors that accumulate over time and can be hard to recognise.
Here are some specific examples of microstressors:
Email overload: Checking emails constantly, feeling pressured to respond quickly, and receiving too many emails in a day can lead to stress and anxiety.
Social media: Scrolling through social media can be a way to unwind, but it can also lead to feelings of inadequacy, jealousy, or FOMO (fear of missing out).
Multitasking: Trying to do too many things at once can be overwhelming and lead to feeling like you're not accomplishing anything.
Commuting: Long commutes, traffic, and public transportation delays can all contribute to stress levels.
Unpredictable schedules: Last-minute changes to your schedule can be stressful, especially if it means rearranging other plans.
Meeting overload: Constantly attending meetings or back-to-back meetings with no breaks can lead to feelings of overwhelm and burnout.
Technology interruptions: Receiving notifications from phone, computer or other devices, can lead to constant distractions and can affect our ability to focus.
These are just a few examples of microstressors, but there are many more. It's crazy to think that even high performers are struggling with microstress and not even knowing it!
But, don't worry, there are some practical tips the article speaks about that can help you manage it.
Set boundaries: Don't be afraid to say "no" when you need to. Establish boundaries that protect your time and energy.
Prioritize self-care: Take breaks, exercise, and do things that make you happy. Taking care of yourself is essential.
Practice mindfulness: Pay attention to your thoughts and emotions. Recognize when you're feeling stressed and take steps to address it.
Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or a therapist if you're feeling overwhelmed. You don't have to go through it alone.
Don't forget that taking care of your microstress is an ongoing process that needs awareness and deliberate action. The good news is, starting small and being consistent can make a big difference in your well-being.
That’s it for this edition.Have a lovely Sunday.
Manoj