Stressed... Not Me!

I feel things were going fine in my life. I’ve been making some good changes and am beginning to recognize how God is helping me and working through me. During the past few weeks of working from home (due to COVID-19) my life began to change. I had to adjust to my work schedule, which became much more busy (because I work in welfare and self-reliance). Not only did my workload increase, but the things happening at home also needed more attention. My son, who’s home from school needed more attention and direction. My infant twins seemed to fuss and I felt I needed to help them. My children who are outside the home seemed to need increased attention. Even my amazing wife and parents needed more attention. Through all of this, I tried to do it ALL.

You might guess, this led to an emergency room visit because of a searing stomach pain (see blog post "Kaneesha's Visit and Strength." After numerous tests, they said my heart and body is healthy, my problem was gastritis (a very major and sharp attack). They discussed diet, exercise, medication, position of sleep, etc., all of which I’ve been working on for years. As I returned home, I couldn’t figure it out. I was upset that all the things I’ve been doing haven’t helped, I was worse off then ever. As I was reviewing the list of items to watch, I finally realized the one that was still a significant problem. STRESS!

For several days, I stressed over the fact that I wasn’t controlling my stress...

At least I don't need to stress Tanner's schoolwork
Finally, I began to see that I need to work on this. I need to focus on the things that will help me through this. I began to focus on the most important things: prayer, scripture study, studying ways to work through my emotions, using the Lift app and other materials that friends and family have suggested. As I’ve put these things first, I’m noticing a greater ability to know where and when I need to focus on work, family, and other items. I’m noticing when my shoulders are tensing up. I’m even beginning to sleep more soundly, and longer.

I know that how I deal with stress has been a problem throughout my life. I know that problems like this (which I’ve nurtured all my life) will take a lot of time and practice to overcome, but they can be overcome. I know that a key step is putting first things first!

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