This week on Swalif (my weekly Instagram Live show) my co-host Ahmed and I talked about managing the daily struggles we are all faced with. I started the show by saying on most mornings I look at my action items and think to myself “I honestly don’t know how I am going to get this all done.” Then I remind myself 'To whom much is given much is required' I put on my lipstick and get to work.
Burden. Overload. Stress. Do these words describe the way you feel about life?
If so, I want you to know you’re not alone, but you can change your outlook and overcome your situation. The truth is, although we may not be able to choose what happens in the environment around us, we can choose how we respond to it.
Stress can be very subtle. Little things can slowly add up and eventually wear us down. Something that was once manageable can slowly become a burden.
If you constantly feel overwhelmed or under stress and you can’t pinpoint the exact reason, try tapping in to your faith. I remind myself; After every difficulty comes ease.
If your finances are a source of constant stress in your life, decide to start a budget (or re-evaluate your current budget). Ask yourself, “What is something practical I can do to solve the problem?” Maybe you can cut an expense that is a luxury but not a necessity or ask someone who is good with finances to take a look at your budget and give you some suggestions.
Upgrade your energy levels. If you are feeling tired and run down, start an exercise routine. I know it sounds counterproductive, but it may be exactly what you need. Decide that you’re not going to make any more excuses. Set aside time each day to get the exercise and care your body desperately needs.
You may think that you simply don’t have the energy to exercise. Maybe you feel too bad, or you’re too exhausted, but I often find when I go ahead and begin to move my body, I start to feel better. Exercise takes energy, but it gives you back more energy than it takes.
You don’t have to live a life burdened with stress and frustration, you can live a happy, peaceful, overcoming life. It’s just a matter of what steps you are going to take, it’s all in your hands.
I try to live a healthy life that is in accordance with my values. This includes cutting down on sugar which can lead to mood swings, reducing coffee which can cause irritability, including movement to my daily routine along with a nightly regimen of deep breathing and meditation. It would also mean, supporting other people, I don’t think this life is all about what you want, it's more about what you can give.
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Shefa Ali