How to reduce stress when you’re juggling work, life, and major decisions
Modern life asks a lot of us. Amid work obligations, personal responsibilities, and the mundane chores of daily life that keep everything ticking along, it can sometimes seem there is little room left to think straight. Throw a life-altering decision into the mix, and stress can grow even faster. Though you can’t always eliminate pressure completely, there are ways to mitigate it and regain some control when big decisions arrive on your plate.
Break big decisions into smaller, manageable steps
One reason life decisions feel so daunting is that they tend to come all at once. Whether it’s switching careers, managing your money or grappling with a house, the pressure of “doing it right” is real. One helpful place to start is to slow down and break the decision into smaller components.
Start by asking simple questions. What needs to be decided now, and what can wait until six months from now? What information do you presently have, and what do you want next? A to-do list can do wonders for clearing mental clutter and making tasks feel less intimidating.
One choice you may face is whether to put your house on the market. It requires time, paperwork, and uncertainty, in addition to other commitments. Others try alternative selling routes to reduce steps. For example, cash house buyers are one option for those seeking a simpler way to sell their home without the traditional haggling. Knowing what all your options are doesn’t mean you need to pick one right away, but having a sense of what’s out there may make the decision feel less overwhelming.
Reduce decision fatigue by setting clear boundaries
Decision fatigue is real when you’re trying to do too many jobs at once. But if you make many small choices throughout the day, eventually you’ll be too tired to make any more. Setting limits can also protect your energy.
Consider letting yourself think about big decisions only at certain times in specific places. For instance, pick a particular time each week to discuss options or make plans, rather than letting the decision linger in your subconscious all day. This can reduce background stress and help you be present in other areas of life.
It’s fine to seek assistance, as well. That could mean hashing things out with a confidant, seeking expert advice, or even just permitting yourself to pause. You don’t need to have the answers. Slowing down and getting to know what your priorities really are will result in far less frazzled, decent decision-making.
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Stress often comes from the sensation of being pulled in 50 directions at once. At moments when work, life, and monumental decisions collide, it is advisable to stop, simplify where possible, and be compassionate with yourself. When making a decision, breaking it down into smaller steps is key to understanding your options and setting clear boundaries that will reduce pressure. You may not be able to eliminate stress, but you can carve out space for yourself and make decisions that feel right to you, in your own time.
