Ha, this is so true. Many people have anxiety because they take on too much work / responsibilities. Learn to say no when appropriate. Something I find easy to do (a good trait for a lawyer.)
Saying This Word Slashes Anxiety, Experts Say
If you suffer from anxiety, you're probably all too familiar with its physical effects. Tense muscles, shallow breathing, dry mouth, and a rapid heartbeat are just a few common symptoms, and the ones I most often notice in myself. (Is anyone else holding their breath right now, while you're reading this?)
Searching for ways to ease my own anxiety, I spoke with two different experts about my symptoms. Their advice? Saying one simple word more often could make a world of difference when it comes to my stress level. Read on to find out what that word is, why it helps—and why saying it isn't as easy as it.
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Between work, kids, household chores, maintaining a social life, and trying to squeeze in a little time for myself (my yoga practice fell by the wayside during the pandemic), it seems like there are never enough hours in the day for all the things I want to do. As a result, feeling overwhelmed and anxious has become a way of life for me—and I know I'm not alone.
"Many people are motivated to try things or take on projects and activities because of a perceived fear of loss," says Bill Hudenko, PhD, Global Head of Mental Health at K Health. "We worry that opportunities may not present themselves again, or that we will lose some critical advantage because we did not fully participate in life."
This resonated with me—my FOMO, or "fear of missing out"—is ever-present (and goes hand-in-hand with my life motto, YOLO, or "you only live once"). Whether it's serving on a committee at my kids' school, organizing a birthday party for a friend, or attending an optional event for work, it's hard for me to say no.
Saying "yes" to everything can make us miserable.