Recently I found out I have a disease. It’s Hurry Sickness. That was abundantly clear when I read the title of this article, but could only skim it, since I was too busy to give it a thorough read at the time.
Having finally (quickly) read the article, I feel like someone’s been watching me. Always busy? Check! Unrealistic about how much can be accomplished in a certain time frame? You bet! Always on? Pretty much!
The effects of Hurry Sickness on the body are distressing, including increased levels of cortisol, which has been linked to diabetes, weight gain and immune system suppression and many other physical problems. I’m seeing the physical effects of Hurry Sickness, and I know that my self-imposed stress isn’t a picnic for those around me.
Some of my past coping mechanisms just won’t work. No amount of super-organization will overcome the fact that I’m trying to do too much. So it’s time for drastic action – a radical shift in the pace of life.
Don’t think you can make a radical change? Here are some tips from the article to increase your sanity and get out of the rat race:
Say no. You don’t have to do everything that is asked of you. Yes, you may be the best at it. But that doesn’t mean you HAVE to do it.
Schedule and then take time off. Do nothing, or at least don’t do things that seem like work.
Count your blessings. This one isn’t in the article, but I do find that it helps me stay positive. When I’m feeling crazy, I often get into poor-me thinking. Stopping to recognize the awesome things in life makes me want to spend my energy on stuff that really matters. (A completed to-do list isn’t on that list.)
Am I ready to retire and take it easy? No way! I DO want a life that is more intentional, balanced and full of purpose.
How are you dealing with the pace of life? Message us or comment below.
Photo by Nicole Harrington on Unsplash.