Stress is often associated with major events or situations in our lives, like deadlines, weddings, illnesses, moving, or starting a new stage in life. These big events are easy to identify and are recognized as stress triggers. Thankfully, these events are usually occasional and pass with time. We don’t start a new career every day or face a major deadline constantly. Even though some events are painful, such as illness or the loss of a loved one, many can be both challenging and exciting.   

Despite the infrequency of these major stressors, most of us feel stressed regularly. Stress has become an everyday feeling.  

The Everyday Microstressors 

If major stressors are occasional, why are we stressed all the time? The answer lies in the small, often unnoticed stressors in our daily lives—microstressors. These tiny forces may seem insignificant individually, but when combined, they can lead us astray. 

Our brains are wired to recognize and react to big stressors, triggering the fight-or-flight response. However, when small events don’t register as threats, our brains don’t activate this response. Despite being overlooked, microstressors still affect our minds and bodies. 

Recognizing and Managing Microstressors 

Microstressors can be compared to a house of cards, where each card added increases the risk of collapse, or a teacup that overflows when just one more drop is added. To prevent this, we need to minimize these microstressors. 

In our daily lives, microstressors are everywhere—an early morning email, a rushed commute, unexpected traffic, or running out of coffee (which can feel like a tragedy in my house). These small stressors differ for everyone, but the good news is that most can be managed, reduced, or even eliminated. 

For example, if traffic is unavoidable, turn it into an opportunity. Listen to an audiobook or podcast, or schedule a call with a friend. Transforming microstressors into positive experiences can make a significant difference. 

My Personal Microstressors and How I Manage Them 

Here are some of my microstressors and how I handle them (which I am sharing just to help you, perhaps, identify your own): 

Rushed Mornings: I’ve created a morning routine that includes quiet time alone, and I avoid checking emails until I’m done. This routine is part of my daily life, even on vacation. 

The News: I stay informed, but I limit my news sources and focus on topics I enjoy, like Formula 1, the Premier League, books, and funny animal videos. I check the news once a day and consider myself updated. 

Schedule Intrusions: To manage interruptions, especially from family and my business partner, I share my schedule and communicate my availability. 

Social Media: I don’t share my whereabouts or any detail of my life (nor my family’s) on social media, so I deleted Instagram from my phone. I prefer catching up with close friends over coffee or dinner rather than following them online. 

Not knowing what to eat: Knowing what I’m going to eat each day reduces stress. I plan meals weekly, shop accordingly, and ensure I have what I need.  

While I’m sure there are more microstressors in my life, these examples can help you identify your own and take action to reduce, manage, or eliminate them. 

Take Action Against Microstressors

While meditation, exercise, volunteering, and socializing are excellent stress management tools, I encourage you to take a close look at your daily routine. Make a list of the small things that contribute to your stress. If they’re within your control, take action. Remember, the teacup overflowed because of the last drop—don’t let that drop be the one that overwhelms you. 

Cheers,

MV