Energy Sapper - Financial Stress

Welcome to another instalment of Energy Sappers, where we tackle the silent culprits draining our vitality! This week let’s dive into one that probably needs no introduction—Financial Stress. Yes, money might make the world go round, but financial stress? It’s more like a spinning hamster wheel, and nobody wants to be on it forever!

Stress!

What is Financial Stress?

Simply put, financial stress is the emotional weight that money (or lack thereof) can put on us. From worrying about rent to dreading the sight of debt statements, financial stress creeps into our lives and refuses to leave politely. Left unchecked, it can make you feel as wrung out as a cheap dishcloth.

How Does Financial Stress Affect Us?

When the numbers don’t add up, it’s not just the bank account that suffers:

• Anxiety: You might find yourself wide awake at 2 a.m., calculating imaginary expenses.

• Headaches: The “thinking cap” starts to feel more like a “headache hat.”

• Physical Health: Chronic stress can contribute to heart disease and other conditions, which we can all agree doesn’t sound fun.

But fear not! There’s no need to let financial stress steal your spark. It’s all about taking small, manageable steps to feel in control again.

How to Cope with Financial Stress (and Keep Your Sanity!)

Let’s be real: no one ever magically “fixes” their finances overnight (unless they win the lottery, of course). For the rest of us, here are some practical tips to keep you sane and maybe even smiling along the way:

1. Identify the Money Monsters
   Make a list of what’s causing the most stress. Is it bills, debt, or the urge to buy that third latte? Identifying the culprits is the first step to taming them.

2. Create a Bare-Bones Budget
   Think of your budget as your financial GPS, directing you to “needs” and steering clear of “wants.” If it’s not essential, it doesn’t make the cut—at least until things stabilise. Each time you skip an unnecessary expense, imagine a tiny cheerleader celebrating your win!

3. Seek Support
   Financial stress loves isolation. Talk to someone who can help—a financial advisor, or even a friend who’s good with money. Sometimes, just hearing “you’re not alone” works wonders.

4. Tackle Debt Like a Boss
   Debt doesn’t disappear by wishing it away. Start small: focus on paying off one account at a time. Seeing progress, even tiny victories, can lift a weight off your shoulders.

5. Stay Kind to Yourself
   Your financial situation does not define you! You’re more than a number in a bank account. Remind yourself that money struggles are something you’re experiencing, not who you are.

6. Invest in Self-Care
   Yep, self-care costs money, but it doesn’t have to break the bank. Find little (affordable) ways to relax and recharge. A stroll outside, a favourite book, or just five minutes of peace can give you a mental boost when stress tries to creep back in.

Remember, financial health is a journey. Each small step adds up, and with a little patience, you'll find yourself feeling more in control and maybe even a bit proud of the progress you've made. You’ve got this!