Am I Busy or Stressed? How to Know When It's Time to Hit Reset
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Busy vs. Stressed: What’s the Difference?
Being busy isn’t necessarily a bad thing. When you’re working towards goals that truly matter to you, busyness can be energizing and satisfying. However, when that busyness starts to feel overwhelming, draining, or out of control, it may be a sign of stress.
Busy: You have a full schedule, but you’re engaged and motivated. You feel a sense of purpose, even if your days are packed.- Stressed: You feel overwhelmed, exhausted, or anxious. Tasks that once felt manageable now seem insurmountable, and you might struggle to find joy in your daily activities.
- Physical Symptoms: Headaches, muscle tension, or frequent colds.
- Emotional Symptoms: Irritability, mood swings, or feelings of anxiety.
- Cognitive Symptoms: Trouble concentrating, forgetfulness, or a constant sense of being overwhelmed.
- Behavioural Symptoms: Changes in eating or sleeping habits, withdrawing from social activities, or neglecting responsibilities.
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms regularly, it may be time to hit the reset button.
How to Hit Reset
If you recognise that stress is creeping into your life, it’s important to take action. Here are some steps to help you reset and regain control:
Evaluate Your Priorities: Take a moment to reflect on your current commitments. Are you spending time on things that truly matter to you? Make a list of your top priorities and consider whether your daily activities align with them.
Set Clear Boundaries: Learn to say no to tasks or obligations that don’t serve your goals or values. Protect your time and energy by setting boundaries that allow you to focus on what’s important.
Practice Mindfulness: Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, into your daily routine. These practices can help you stay present, reduce anxiety, and improve your overall well-being.
Create a Balanced Schedule: Balance is key to avoiding burnout. Make sure your schedule includes time for work, family, and self-care. Remember, rest and relaxation are just as important as productivity.
Reconnect with Your Vision: Revisit your long-term goals and dreams. Are you still on the path you want to be on? If not, consider making adjustments to realign with your vision.
Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member, or professional, getting support can provide new perspectives and strategies for managing stress.
Using The Strategy Planner to Manage Busyness and Stress
One of the best ways to ensure your life aligns with your values and goals is to have a clear, actionable plan. That’s where The Strategy Planner comes in. Designed specifically for the modern working mother, The Strategy Planner helps you stay organised, focused, and intentional about how you spend your time.
With features like vision planning, goal setting, and self-care reminders, The Strategy Planner is more than just a planner—it’s a tool for creating a life that reflects what’s truly important to you. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or personal pursuits, The Strategy Planner helps you prioritize tasks, set boundaries, and make time for what matters most.
By using The Strategy Planner, you can turn busyness into purposeful action and prevent stress from taking over your life. Remember, being busy doesn’t have to mean being stressed. With the right mindset and tools, you can achieve your goals and enjoy the journey along the way.