Some people say life is stressful. It can be. It often isn't - unless you make it so.
Like a crack addict, some people create drama in their lives to get an emotional high. Once the high subsides, the person Finds Excuses And Reasons (F.E.A.R.) to create more drama - perpetuating the emotional high.
Does this sound like you?
Even a little?
If so, you may be addicted to stress.
Here's the thing.....
Events in and of themselves do not create stress. It is the meaning you give to these events that causes the stressful reaction. What you have something mean about you or your possibilities is what spins you into a cycle of reactive stress - or a calm deliberate thought process that leads to a healthy outcome.
There are two ways you react to stress: emotionally and physically. Emotional reactions to stress are as varied as there are perspectives on any of the events of your life. The bodily reaction to stress triggers, however, is more hardwired.
Here's what happens....
Under stress your adrenal system releases hormones and adrenaline. In a positive state, your brain releases a chemical known as dopamine that makes you feel positive. These are chemical reactions that the body can become addicted to.
If you are a stress addict you will unknowingly create drama in your life where there is no cause just to get the chemical high - beginning with how you think. Your thoughts evoke chemical reactions in your body.
The top 5 signs you are Addicted to Stress are:
1. Chronic lack of ability to focus
2. Overwhelming desire to maintain routine
3. Habitual Procrastination
4. Overall lethargy
5. Persistent negativity
Physical exercise is a great way to relieve stress. When you physically exert yourself, the body releases chemical substances similar in nature to opiates. You get a feel-good high.
As the lemur said in the movie Madagascar, "I like to move it, move it. I like to MOVE IT!"
Find ways to move around more in your daily life. Try using the parking space farthest away from your destination. Walking is a great way to get your feel good blood flowing.
Reaching for a newer and better perspective is my all time favorite stress alleviator. The new way of perceiving a situation gives rise to positive thoughts, transmitting chemicals that make me feel good about myself and what I can do to overcome challenges.
Rise to the occasions of your life. Get off the addicted to stress treadmill.