Life can feel overwhelming sometimes. One minute you’re managing a busy workload, and the next you’re juggling kids’ schedules, bills, house chores, and even surprises—like a sick pet or car troubles. Stress shows up in different ways for everyone. While a little stress can motivate some people, for most of us, too much stress takes a toll.
Common signs of stress include headaches, irritability, trouble sleeping, stomach problems, or even muscle tension and pain. Left unchecked, stress can build up and impact both your mental and physical health. The good news? With the right strategies, you can calm your mind, ease your body, and feel more in control.
7 Helpful Questions to Ask Yourself When Stress Strikes
1. Is there another way to approach this?
If something feels impossible, try breaking it down into smaller steps. For example, instead of tackling a huge project all at once, divide it into smaller, doable parts. Or if one solution isn’t working, brainstorm alternatives or ask someone else for a fresh perspective.
2. Would stepping away help?
Sometimes, a short break is exactly what your body and mind need to reset. Take a five-minute walk, stretch, or step outside for fresh air. If it’s a bigger project, see if you can set it aside temporarily and return later with new energy.
3. Can I ask for help?
You don’t have to do it all on your own. Whether it’s asking a coworker to share a task, arranging a carpool for your kids, or hiring a professional to help with finances or chores, asking for help is not a weakness—it’s wisdom.
4. What’s in my control, and what isn’t?
This is one of the most powerful ways to ease stress. Focus your energy on what you can influence, and try to release the things that are outside your control. Letting go of what you can’t change creates more space for calm and clarity.
5. Am I carrying someone else’s stress?
It’s natural to feel empathy for loved ones, but sometimes we “take on” their stress as if it were our own. This is called secondhand stress. You can support others without carrying their burden.
6. Will worrying solve this?
Most of the time, worrying just drains your energy without fixing the problem. Instead of focusing on “what ifs,” shift to “what can I do right now?” Writing down your thoughts or focusing on positive possibilities can help calm a racing mind.
7. What helps me relax?
Think of the simple things that bring you peace—a warm bath, a good book, listening to music, deep breathing, a walk outdoors, or even just sipping tea. Build these moments of self-care into your day.
