Managing Stress
I used to have trouble with executive function when I was younger and I got into trouble for being 'lazy'. As an adult I overcompensate by being a workaholic to the extent that I burn myself out.
Due to some traumatic experiences in my life, I have periodic bouts of depression. These seem to come about most noticeably when I burn myself out.
I know I have to learn to pace myself. I've gone down some dead-ends in life and I get worked-up up about trying to change direction. This is because I have a huge fear failure and more importantly, a fear of wasting my life. I don't want to be stuck in a rut but I don't want to become ill trying to get out of the rut.
I find it helps to look at each situation from a different perspective. Does anyone have any thoughts that keep them going without beating themselves up?
_________________
Zombies, zombies will tear us apart...again.
Hmm, looking back now but you gotta be nice to yourself.
Gotta learn to accept.
And to forgive.
And not set yourself (near) unattainable goals
Be very wary of anyone that tells you 'trust me'
Experiment with food and learn to listen to your body.
And plod on.
Desiderata helped me a lot at the time. I think it was the beginning of finding myself
Go placidly amid the noise and haste, and remember what peace there may be in silence.
As far as possible without surrender be on good terms with all persons.
Speak your truth quietly and clearly; and listen to others, even the dull and ignorant; they too have their story.
Avoid loud and aggressive persons, they are vexations to the spirit.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter;
for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself.
Enjoy your achievements as well as your plans.
Keep interested in your career, however humble; it is a real possession in the changing fortunes of time.
Exercise caution in your business affairs; for the world is full of trickery.
But let this not blind you to what virtue there is; many persons strive for high ideals;
and everywhere life is full of heroism.
Be yourself.
Especially, do not feign affection.
Neither be critical about love; for in the face of all aridity and disenchantment it is as perennial as the grass.
Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.
Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortune. But do not distress yourself with imaginings.
Many fears are born of fatigue and loneliness. Beyond a wholesome discipline, be gentle with yourself.
You are a child of the universe, no less than the trees and the stars;
you have a right to be here.
And whether or not it is clear to you, no doubt the universe is unfolding as it should.
Therefore be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be,
and whatever your labors and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life keep peace with your soul.
With all its sham, drudgery and broken dreams, it is still a beautiful world. Be careful. Strive to be happy.
© Max Ehrmann 1927
