A Few Suggestions for Recognizing and Resolving Mental Stress

How to handle a wake-up call from the universe

Photo by Matthew Osborn on Unsplash

You know the feeling.

It’s the sense that something — or everything — isn’t quite right. You might feel edgy, depressed, or unclear about the future. And as hard as you try to convince yourself everything will eventually be okay, you find it difficult to get back in alignment with the real life you know you were meant to live.

For many, the presence of uncertainty and confusion are the result of a struggle of identity — the on-going conversation in your mind between who you really are, and the person attempting to measure up to others’ expectations. And typically, your authentic self falls into the shadows of doubt — waiting for an opportunity to finally step forward and be seen.

This type of internal conflict isn’t uncommon.

Especially when friends, family members, co-workers, and career obligations constantly influence us in a dozen uncomfortable ways.

Those bouts of anxiety and stress occur when we experience feelings of frustration or confusion. And it’s usually an indication our internal compass is out of balance — and our instincts are trying to send us a message.

The result?

All too often, our guiding voice is put on mute — self-triggered to silent mode because we’ve convinced ourselves the needs, wants, and agendas of others hold a higher priority than our personal goals.

If any of this strikes a nerve, you’re not alone.

So how can you get back on track and pursue the dreams and goals that are most important to you — without deferring to the agenda of others?