Thursday July 3, 2025 | Feeling like everything is a constant hassle just because it is hard

The feeling that "everything is a hassle" is a common experience. However, it's often more about how challenges are perceived and addressed than an objective truth. This feeling likely reflects being overwhelmed, stressed, or having difficulty managing various aspects of life. 

Here are potential reasons for feeling overwhelmed:

• Chronic Stress or Burnout: Constant high stress levels can impair the ability to handle tasks, making them feel overwhelming.
• Mental Health Conditions: Conditions like depression, anxiety, or ADHD can affect executive function and lead to feelings of overwhelm.
• Too Many Responsibilities or Life Changes: A heavy workload, major life transitions, or difficult relationships can contribute to feeling swamped.
• Perfectionism: Striving for unrealistic standards can make even small tasks seem daunting and lead to feelings of inadequacy.
• Difficulty Saying No or Setting Boundaries: Overcommitting or feeling unable to decline requests can lead to burnout and overwhelm.
• Lack of Support: Feeling isolated and unsupported can make navigating challenges feel much harder. 

Strategies for managing overwhelm and finding relief:

• Focus on What Can Be Controlled: Identify areas of agency and direct energy there, rather than dwelling on uncontrollable factors.
• Practice Mindfulness and Relaxation: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or spending time in nature can help calm the mind and reduce stress.
• Prioritize and Break Down Tasks: Create to-do lists, prioritize tasks, and break large projects into smaller, manageable steps.
• Set Boundaries: Learn to decline non-essential commitments and protect time and energy.
• Seek Support: Talk to trusted friends, family, or a mental health professional.
• Prioritize Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote physical and emotional well-being, such as exercise, healthy eating, and getting enough sleep.
• Challenge Negative Thinking: Reframe negative thoughts into more realistic ones and focus on solutions.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and appreciate progress and accomplishments.
• Focus on the Present Moment: Mindfulness practices can help stay grounded and reduce anxiety about the past or future. 

Remember, feeling overwhelmed signals a need to slow down and care for yourself. Identifying the root causes and implementing strategies to manage stress and overwhelm can help regain a sense of balance and make life feel less like a constant hassle.