Life Just Sucks Sometimes: How to Overcome Low Moments and Reduce Stress
Nov 09, 2024
Today, I'm just… low. It’s been ages since I’ve felt this drained, but this week? It’s felt like a slow unraveling. Day by day, I’ve noticed myself feeling a little more cracked and worn down, and even though part of me knows this is a temporary rough patch, it doesn’t make it feel any easier.
I honestly don’t even know how it got to this point. Work has been non-stop, and it keeps piling up. I’m not great at setting boundaries, so I end up saying “yes” way more than I should. And beyond work, life’s packed too: my twin sons’ birthday is just around the corner, then a few more family birthdays after that, and, of course… Christmas. I know it sounds a little “bah humbug,” but every year, the festive season feels less magical and more like a mountain of expectations. Balancing work, my sons’ activities, Luke’s health, and trying to meet all the demands of this time of year - it’s just… a lot. I crave simplicity, and yet, everything about this time of year feels anything but simple.
Right now, the stress feels paralysing, and I’m a little embarrassed to even admit that. I keep thinking, I should be stronger, right? I’ve been overloaded before, so why does this feel so different, so heavy? Writing this out is my way of clearing my head and trying to break free from this rut.
Something that comes to mind is a piece of advice I heard at a retreat earlier this year. One of the hosts, Jessie, said, “In moments like this, pause and ask yourself, ‘What do I need right now?’” That’s been echoing in my mind today, and I think it’s time to listen.
Today is Saturday, and normally I’d be catching up on work, but instead, I’m going to give myself permission to relax. I’ll watch a film, unwind, and save work for tomorrow - maybe get up early, exercise, and start fresh.
What do I need over the next few weeks to feel better?
To get back to feeling more like myself, here’s what I think I need:
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Space: I need some breathing room to clear my head and feel grounded. Even a little time carved out in my calendar to pause, reflect, or just be would make a difference.
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Boundaries: I’m realising just how much pressure I put on myself, especially with work. It’s time to let myself say “no” more often, to protect my time, and to create space for things that really matter.
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Limit social media and be intentional with it: Scrolling has become this automatic habit that doesn’t bring much joy, so I’m going to be more intentional with what I view - only engaging with content that inspires me, brings positivity, or makes me feel connected in a healthy way.
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More family time: Lately, I’ve been feeling guilty for spending so many late nights at the office. I know that more time with family will help me feel better - reconnected and re-centred.
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Prioritising time for myself: I need to invest more time in my own growth and self-care. Fewer social obligations and more focus on myself will allow me to recharge, reflect, and heal. It’s all about giving myself the space to just be and reconnect with my own needs.
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Avoid negativity and drama. If something or someone drains my energy, I’m stepping back for now. Instead, I’m focusing on what uplifts me - positive relationships, encouraging content, and activities that bring peace.
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Move more, eat better: Taking care of my body is part of taking care of my mind, and I know this. Drinking more water, choosing healthier foods, exercising each day, and taking breaks to clear my head can help me feel more balanced.
I’m hoping these small shifts can bring back a little calm and clarity. If you’re also feeling weighed down by it all, maybe take a moment to ask yourself, What do I need right now? Sometimes, we just need to ask the question and take small steps from there. What you need may be different from what I need, so take some time to reflect and jot it down.
Now, I guess my next step is figuring out how to really stick with these intentions. Because it’s one thing to write it all out, and another thing to actually live it. So here’s to taking that next step, one small action at a time. I’ll check back in with an update next week. In the meantime, take care of yourself.