What do you think of your to-do list? Whether it’s your professional or personal life, there are always things to do, yet we often forget that we have choices – not only in what we do but also in how, when and where.
More importantly, we can choose how we perceive the to-do list.
I recently got hooked on Susie Moore’s Let It Be Easy podcast, and she discussed something that clicked for me: the distinction between stress vs. responsibility. Part of this particular episode was based on her interview with Dr. Kelly McGonigal, author of The Upside of Stress.
It turns out that a lot of our daily stress might actually be our everyday responsibilities disguised. McGonigal’s book challenges our understanding of stress, arguing that it can enhance our performance and well-being if embraced correctly rather than feared.
In reality, sometimes, what we call “stress” is just us facing our roles and tasks, fearing we don’t have the time, energy, or resources to manage them.
But here’s the secret—changing how we see these moments and our never-ending to-do lists can seriously lighten our load. Instead of seeing every email notification, text or meeting as a stress bomb, ask, “Is this really something to worry about, or just part of my job?”
Making Mindfulness Tangible
Mindfulness isn’t just a trendy word! It’s about giving ourselves a moment to breathe and assess what’s behind our stress. Is it fear or just a busy to-do list? Often, it turns out it’s not as scary or essential as it seems. Pausing for a deep breath before reacting can put things into perspective.
Reframing Tasks: Make the Shift
Instead of slogging through tasks with a “have to” mindset, consider a “get to” attitude—thanks again to a tip from Susie Moore.
It sounds simple, but flipping the script like this transforms the whole experience. Suddenly, I get to work on this project; I get to have these responsibilities because they mean I’m trusted, capable, and heck, I’m making things happen!
Take a Pause to Choose Your Frame of Mind
So the next time you feel that familiar wave of stress coming on, take a beat. It might just be a hidden blessing, reminding you of everything you get to do or prompting you to revise things in your life.
This friendly approach can make a huge difference. By recognizing and adjusting our perceptions, we turn responsibilities into opportunities and release stress.
Two Links Du Jour:
1. Stress vs. Responsibility – Podcast Episode 668 – Let It Be Easy with Susie Moore
2. The Upside of Stress by Kelly McGonigal, PhD
Two Minutes Du Jour 