#55: The Secret to Less Stress and More Happiness
Imagine hiking a trail with your senses on high alert, every rustle and shadow stirring a sense of heightened awareness. That’s exactly what happened to me while trekking through Rocky Mountain National Park, watching for bears! My spidey senses were buzzing, all thanks to a very natural response we all know as stress. Stress, in the right context, can save us—but chronic stress, the kind we feel at work or at home, can be more like an invisible bear lurking around every corner. This episode of the Make Happiness Happen podcast dives into taming that stress bear in our lives!
Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast player or read a summary below.
Introduction
Hi, friends! I’m Shelly, creator and host of the Make Happiness Happen podcast, where we dive into real-life ways to create peace and joy, even when life gets overwhelming. In this episode, we’re talking about stress—the kind we deal with every day and how it keeps us from finding real happiness. We’ll identify stress triggers, understand how chronic stress affects us, and explore practical ways to break the cycle. If you’re ready to create more calm in your life, let’s jump right in!
Understanding the Sources of Your Stress
We all know stress too well, but have you ever considered where it really comes from? In this episode, we talk about common sources like work demands, family pressures, financial concerns, and social media—yes, even those “perfect” online lives! Stress itself isn’t always bad; it’s designed to protect us, after all. The problem is when it sticks around, turning into chronic stress. I shared a story about how keeping a “stress diary” can help you see patterns and pinpoint those sneaky stressors that keep showing up. Try it! Noting down your stress triggers can be the first step to making changes and regaining peace.
The Impact of Chronic Stress on Our Well-being
Chronic stress is more than a mental strain; it’s hard on our bodies too. Constantly operating in “fight or flight” mode affects our sleep, mood, and even our health. I’ll be the first to admit that I get “crabby” when stress builds up! In this episode, we discuss how stress can manifest as headaches, sleep problems, and even increased health risks. In short, living in a constant state of stress isn’t how we’re meant to live. Just like my heightened senses on a bear-trail hike, chronic stress keeps us on edge. Learning to recognize its toll is a huge step toward reclaiming happiness.
Simple Ways to Break the Stress Cycle
So, what can we do to break free from the stress cycle? I shared some tried-and-true self-care practices, like my morning gratitude journal routine and deep breathing exercises, to calm our bodies and clear our minds. Self-care isn’t about perfection or luxury—it’s about finding small, daily habits that help you recharge. Setting boundaries and practicing mindfulness are other powerful ways to stay balanced. By being proactive about self-care and keeping realistic expectations, you’ll create a life with more peace and joy, making room for authentic happiness.
Let’s Wrap Things Up
So, if stress has felt like a constant shadow in your life, remember these three steps: pinpointing your stress sources, recognizing the toll it takes on you, and implementing simple habits to manage it. Each step will help you take back your peace, one day at a time. Don’t let stress run the show; create a life filled with happiness. For more on this journey to less stress and more joy, listen to the full episode of the Make Happiness Happen podcast, wherever you tune in!
Next Steps
I’d love to hear your insights and ahas! Feel free to reach out to me on Instagram or Facebook, or drop me an email at shelly@makehappinesshappen.com. And if you haven’t joined our community yet, be sure to request to join The Happiness Vibe Tribe on Facebook. Most importantly, don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast so you don’t miss any future episodes!
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Episode Resources:
GET YOUR FREE GRATITUDE JOURNAL HERE:
https://bit.ly/todayimgratefulfreebie
GET MY FAVORITE DAILY PRAYER AND GRATITUDE JOURNAL ON AMAZON:
https://amzn.to/3YHEsgp