What are Micro Stressors?

Micro stressors add to the day to day things that cause us to feel anxious or stressed. Sometimes know as the straw that breaks the camels back, just another little thing to stress you out.

Micro stressors, also known as daily hassles or minor stressors, are small everyday events or experiences that can cause stress and impact our overall well-being. While they may seem insignificant individually, their cumulative effect can lead to chronic stress if not effectively managed. Here are some common micro stressors and strategies to resolve them:

1. Commute Stress: Long commuting times, traffic jams, or crowded public transportation can create frustration and stress. To resolve this, consider using alternative routes, adjusting travel times to avoid peak hours, or finding ways to make your commute more enjoyable (e.g., listening to music or podcasts, reading a magazine or a good book or practicing deep breathing exercises).

2. Technology Overload: Constant notifications, emails, and social media updates can lead to information overload and a sense of being always “on.” To address this, consider setting boundaries by turning off unnecessary notifications, scheduling tech-free time each day, or using productivity apps to manage and prioritise tasks more efficiently. Turn your phone off at 8pm, unless you really need it to be on.

3. Work Interruptions: Frequent interruptions and distractions in the workplace can affect productivity and increase stress levels. To minimise this, try using time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique (working in focused bursts) or creating a distraction-free workspace (e.g., using noise-canceling headphones or politely communicating your need for uninterrupted time to colleagues). If you work from home, ensure you have a specific are just for work with minimal disruptions and near a window.

4. Social Pressures: Social obligations, comparisons, and conflicts can create stress in our personal lives. Setting boundaries and saying no to activities that are not essential to you can help manage social pressure. Prioritising self-care, practicing assertiveness, and seeking support from loved ones can also be beneficial. Remember self-care is a necessity not a luxury of being selfish, because if you don’t look after you who is?

5. Financial Worries: Money-related concerns, such as bills, debt, or budgeting, can be a significant source of stress. Take steps to manage your finances better by creating a realistic budget, seeking professional financial advice if needed, and exploring resources for improving financial literacy and saving strategies.

6. Health Maintenance: Neglecting self-care, failing to get enough sleep, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise can lead to stress and impact overall well-being. Prioritising regular exercise, maintaining a balanced diet, establishing a consistent sleep routine, and finding time for relaxation or mindfulness exercises can help alleviate stress in this area.

Remember, resolving micro stressors requires a proactive approach and a combination of different strategies. Experiment with different techniques to find what works best for you, and prioritise self-care and stress management in your daily routine.

I can help and support you to take back control.

I frequently work with teenagers and adults to help them take back control using Hypnosis, as well as teaching them EFT (Emotional Freedom Technique, coping strategies to manage any difficult emotions caused by stress. Sessions are personalised to each individual, it isn’t a case of one size fits all therapy.

Keeping a diary or journal can help you to write down what triggers your anxiety or causes you to feel stressed. Write down where you were, what you were doing and feeling when you started to feel anxious or stressed. This will help you to find out what your triggers are and help you to take back control, so that you remain calm, confident and in control.

If you need help get in touch for a free, confidential telephone consultation here

For more help and advice click here