There are many different definitions of stress, but let’s start as we mean to go on, and keep it simple!
I define stress as the feeling of having more to do than you can currently cope with.
Stress can be a temporary response to a particular incident, or it can be a long-term debilitating state affecting all areas of your life. It’s not a condition or an illness, and it’s perfectly treatable through a combination of preventative measures and active coping strategies.
Some Facts
- Average working time has increased by 20% over the last decade.
- Leisure time has decreased by 32%.
- 75% of us work more than a 40 hour week.
- 75% of people suffer stress regularly.
- Many employees take less annual leave now than they did 10 years ago.
- Stress accounts for 40% of all work-related absences.
So most of us are working harder, for longer, with less time to rest & recuperate. That’s most people – what about you? Read on to understand how to recognise stress.
Main Symptoms
These are the most common symptoms of stress. How many do you recognise in yourself? If you haven’t done so already, click here to download your FREE stress test.
- Insomnia
- Poor concentration
- Poor time keeping
- Drinking excessive caffeine or alcohol
- Smoking more
- Weight loss
- Palpitations / chest pains
- Lump in throat
- Feeling anxious / unable to relax
- Long to do list / no to do list
- Spending significantly more time on your own / neglecting relationships
Benefits of Less Stress
We get what we focus on, so let’s start focussing less on what we don’t want (stress …) and more of what we do want (relaxed and happy!). Which of these would make the most difference in your life?
- Feeling happier
- More energy
- Improved sleeping
- Improved self-esteem & confidence
- Improved motivation
- Improved concentration
- Greater productivity
- Healthier
- Improved relationships
- Improved sex life
- More likely to succeed
Now that we’re clearer on what stress is, what can cause it and how to spot it, it’s time to apply this to you. Click here to understand how the AMC Less Stress programme can help you become more relaxed and happier!
