15 Things You Subconsciously Do That Are Causing You Stress

We all get stressed sometimes, and we may actually be doing it to ourselves. Our main source of stress may be one of these 15 common, everyday behaviors you may be doing without realizing it. These things are sure to make you feel stressed, anxious and unhappy. Learning about these common things that you are probably doing subconsciously that you need to stop right away. You may feel a whole lot better when you do!

Note: The content of this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional for advice tailored to your individual circumstances.

Overloading Your To-Do List

It’s easy to think that writing down everything you need to do will help you get more done. But when your to-do list is too long, it can overwhelm you before you start. Instead of packing your list with every little task, try focusing on just a few important ones each day. Setting realistic goals can reduce the pressure and make you feel good about your accomplishments. A shorter, more manageable list can assist you in staying on track without stress.

Comparing Yourself to Others

In the age of social media, it’s easy to compare your life to the highlight reels you see online. You might feel stressed because you think you should be doing better or achieving more. But remember, what you see online is often just the best parts of someone’s life, not the whole picture. Focus on your journey and the progress you’re making. When you stop comparing yourself to others, you can reduce stress and appreciate your successes more.

Forgetting to Breathe Deeply

You might not notice how shallow your breathing becomes when busy or stressed. Shallow breathing can increase feelings of nervous tension and anxiety. Breathing deeply and filling your lungs can help calm your mind and body. Practice deep breathing a few times daily, especially when you feel overwhelmed. It’s a simple way to reset and reduce stress in the moment. This will help you feel relaxed after a while.

Ignoring the Need for Fun

When life gets busy, fun often takes a back seat to responsibilities. But not making time for fun can make you feel more stressed. Setting aside time to do things you enjoy, whether playing a game, watching a movie, or spending time with friends, is essential. Fun activities can break you from the stress of mundane life and help you recharge. Remember, life isn’t just about work—having fun is essential for your well-being.

Staying in One Place Too Long

Sitting in one place for too long, whether at work or home, can make you feel stiff and stressed. Your body needs movement to stay fit, and your mind needs a change of scenery. Take breaks to stand up, stretch, or walk around. Even a few minutes of movement can help reduce tension and clear your mind. Changing your environment and moving your body can reduce stress and feel more revitalized.

Avoiding Natural Light

Spending too much time indoors without natural light can affect your mood and increase stress. Natural light helps manage your body’s internal clock, which controls sleep and energy levels. You might feel more tired and stressed if you’re not getting enough sunlight. Try to get outside for a few minutes daily, even to stand in the sun. Bringing more natural light into your daily routine can help you feel better and less stressed.

Saying “Yes” Too Often

It’s nice to help others, but always saying “yes” can lead to stress if you’re taking on too much. You might have too many responsibilities and insufficient time when you agree to every request. Learning to say “no” when necessary can protect your time and energy. It’s okay to prioritize your own needs sometimes. You can reduce stress and keep your life more balanced by setting boundaries.

Holding onto Physical Clutter

A cluttered space can lead to a disorganized mind. If your home or workspace consists of things you don’t need, it can add to your stress without realizing it. Taking time to declutter and organize your space can make you feel more in control and less overwhelmed. Start with a tiny area and work your way through your space. A tidy environment can assist you in thinking more clearly and reduce stress.

Not Drinking Enough Water

Dehydration can make you feel worn out, cranky, and more stressed. When you don’t drink enough water, your body must work harder to do it, making you feel even more stressed. Drinking daily water is essential to stay hydrated and keep your energy up. Keeping a water bottle with you can remind you to drink more often. Staying hydrated is an easy way to help your body and mind feel better and less stressed.

Dwelling on Negative Thoughts

Having negative thoughts occasionally is normal, but dwelling on them can make you feel more stressed. Focusing too much on what’s going wrong can make it hard to see the positive things in your life. Try to divert your attention when you start thinking negatively and shift your focus to something positive. Practicing gratitude or thinking about what you’re thankful for can help change your mindset. Focusing on the good can reduce stress and make you feel more at peace.

Overcomplicating Simple Decisions

Sometimes, we overthink simple decisions, which can add to our stress. Whether it’s choosing what to wear or what to eat, spending too much time on small decisions can make your day feel more stressful. Try to simplify your decision-making process by setting limits on how much time you spend on choices. For example, give yourself five minutes to decide and then move on. Simplifying decisions can free up your mental energy and reduce stress.

Ignoring the Signs of Stress

One of the most common things people do is ignore the signs of stress until it becomes overwhelming. You might push through, thinking you can handle it, but ignoring stress can make it worse. Pay attention to your body and mind—if you’re feeling tired, anxious, or easily irritated, these could be signs that you need to take a break. Acknowledging stress early can help you manage it before it gets out of control.

Not Getting Enough Sleep

Sleep is very important to your mental and physical health. When you don’t get enough sleep, you do not give your body time to recharge or recuperate from the day. You will wake up the next morning feeling worn down and exhausted before the day even begins! Make sure you climb into bed each night at a reasonable hour and give yourself plenty of time to relax and recharge.

Overspending

Going on a shopping spree every now and then can be a very fun and much-needed experience. But when you overspend on a regular basis, you may find yourself stressed after your shopping trip rather than happy about your purchases. Overspending is a big source of stress, especially when you look at your low bank account balance and wonder how you will make it go back up. Try to stick to your budget and avoid spending too much money frivolously.

Too Much Screen Time

Spending too much time on your phone, on a tablet, or in front of a TV can really amp up your stress levels, especially when you’re constantly switching between work emails, social media, and news updates. All that information overload leaves your brain feeling fried and makes it hard to unwind. On top of that, the blue light from screens can mess with your sleep, which is super essential for managing stress. Spending less time on screens and taking breaks to disconnect can really do wonders for your mental well-being.

Stress is a part of life, but it doesn’t have to control you. By recognizing and changing some of the everyday habits that add to your stress, you can take steps to feel better. Whether it’s simplifying your to-do list, making time for fun, or drinking more water, these small changes can make a big difference. The key is to be aware of what’s causing your stress and to take action to manage it.