Introduction
In today’s world, stress is no longer an exception — it has become the norm. According to statistics, one in every four or five people experiences constant stress. This condition affects not only our mental state but also our physical health.
So why has life become so stressful? And most importantly — is it possible to get out of this state?
The Silent Struggle: A Tired Mind in the Night
Night falls. Everything around becomes quiet. But the human mind… does not stop.
One thought replaces another:
“Did I pay that bill?”
“Did I forget something for tomorrow?”
“Is everything okay at work?”
“Is everything fine with my family?”
The body wants to rest, but the mind keeps racing. This feeling is familiar to many people. Even after a tiring day, the body does not receive the command to “switch off” at night.
What Causes Stress?
According to experts, the main cause of stress is not only workload — but also our internal expectations.
Psychologist Professor Cary Cooper from the University of Manchester states:
“Stress is not only the result of external factors, but is closely linked to the high demands people place on themselves and others.”
Austrian economic psychologist Bernhard Riener adds:
“If we believe that the future will not turn out the way we want, that alone creates stress.”
In other words, the problem is often not the situation itself — but how we perceive it.
The Trap of Perfectionism
Many people, without realizing it, find themselves asking:
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Do I have to do everything perfectly?
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Do I have to please everyone?
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Am I not allowed to make mistakes?
This mindset leads to constant tension. As a result, no matter how hard a person tries, they never feel good enough.
Is Stress Always Harmful?
Interestingly, stress is not always negative.
Yoga teacher Poonam Stecher Sharma notes:
“Sometimes stress pushes us to act, motivates us, and helps us grow.”
This is called “positive stress.” However, the problem arises when it becomes long-term and turns into:
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fatigue
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burnout
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psychological tension
Taking Back Control
The pace of modern life often feels beyond our control. But the good news is — some things can be changed.
Key principle:
Don’t try to do everything — focus on what truly matters
Professor Cooper recommends:
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minimizing work-related contact after working hours
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avoiding the need to always be “online”
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not checking emails during rest or holidays
Because when a person is constantly available, the brain never enters a true “rest mode.”
Ways to Cope with Stress
Stress can be reduced not only psychologically but also physically:
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yoga and breathing exercises
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massage and relaxation
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acupuncture
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walking and physical activity
In addition, one of the most effective tools is:
proper time management
7 Golden Rules of Time Management
Stress is often linked to the feeling of “not having enough time.” But in reality, the problem is not the lack of time — it’s how we manage it.
1. Accept that you can’t do everything
Focus on what matters most.
2. Set priorities (Eisenhower principle)
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important and urgent tasks
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important but not urgent tasks
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tasks that can be delegated
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unnecessary tasks
3. Slow down when pressure increases
Speeding up leads to more mistakes and higher stress.
4. Take breaks
Your brain needs rest.
5. Separate work and personal life
Don’t bring work home.
6. Lower your expectations of yourself
Sometimes we are the source of our own stress.
7. Learn to say “no”
You don’t have to agree to everything.
Conclusion
Stress is a part of life — but becoming its victim is not inevitable.
The key is:
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not to control everything
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but to learn how to control yourself
Remember:
There will always be 24 hours in a day.
But how you choose to live them — is entirely up to you.