Stress is the tension between reality and what we imagine reality should be.
If you want to make stress really intense I’ve got some suggestions:
- Complain to all of your friends. Completely obsess over every detail. Replay the crappy stuff over and over again. Get hundreds of opinions about what you should do and then don’t do anything.
- Take on more. Really. Ask for more projects. Happily agree to lead the PTA, drive carpool and cook dinner. Don’t you dare ask for help or delegate anything. Saying “no” wouldn’t be polite.
- Blame your stress on everyone else: the economy, your kids, your husband, your job, your health, your doctor, anything and everything that doesn’t involve you. This way you don’t have to change anything. (No one likes change.)
Complaining, overloading and blame. These will definitely make stress worse. If you’re like me, I’m sure you’ve had some good firsthand experience spinning yourself into a tizzy.
Of course I’m being presumptuous. There is a good chance you want to make stress better. If that is your goal, avoid doing all of the above. Instead focus on what is in your control, delegate and take responsibility. Sometimes easier said than done, but always worth a try.