In 2024, we have a new kind of epidemic affecting the British public. It’s not virus or pathogen-borne, but it is born out of the expectations, trials and tribulations of our daily lives.
Almost 63% of the population in the UK experience stress almost once a week, with women being more prone to stress attacks than men. Just a measly 6% of people have said that they never experienced stress, making stress a huge concern for the masses.
Some of the most common causes of stress in the UK are work-related, money problems, health issues and family problems. While stress has now become unavoidable, it can have severe ramifications on your life, leading to obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiac issues or stroke.
Today, we will be discussing a holistic approach to embracing a stress-free lifestyle.
Take a deep breath and let’s get started!
Get Your Finances in Order
The majority of people worry about money—how to make ends meet, pay their bills, and cover other expenses with their ever-diminishing income. The UK is the 16th most expensive country as per monthly cost of living, with an average household spending of £3,000. This can also vary depending on where you live and whether you have a debt or mortgage.
However, the best way to rid yourself of financial stress is to learn how to manage your finances better. Here are some easy tips to keep your finances in order so you can lead a stress-free life.
1. Pay of Debt
Debt can often take a toll on your mental health, with default notices and pay-now letters and emails piling in your mailbox and inbox. Therefore, it is best to pay off any credit card, personal loans or mortgages first. The sooner you pay your debt, the more you can save and live a stress-free life. You can either pay loans with the highest interest first or start by paying off the smallest amount and work your way towards paying the more substantial amount.
2. Prepare for Emergencies
The best way to avoid stress during emergencies is to have an emergency fund. This will be a stash of money that you don’t touch unless you meet with an unfortunate situation. An emergency fund should amount to at least three to six months of living expenses. An emergency financial situation can be anything from losing your job, being ill for an extended period, or losing a family member.
For smaller emergencies, like a car breakdown or paying for your child’s fees, consider the best payday loans from trusted lenders. Certain lenders may offer you quick loans in smaller amounts if your credit is not too bad, and you can repay them with your next pay cheque.
3. Make a Budget
The best way to live a financially secure and stable life is to cut back on unnecessary expenses and stick to a budget. Are you taking a cab to work on a regular basis? Try public transportation. Are you splurging on entertainment? Unsubscribe from OTT platforms you barely watch. Making some practical choices can help you significantly reduce financial stress.
Additionally, you can create a practical budget where you allocate a specific amount for everything you need, like rent, groceries, transportation, and shopping. This will help you understand your spending patterns and also save money by the end of the month.
Live Your Life By The Law
Disputes are part of life, whether it is irreconcilable differences with a spouse or problems at work. Thus, it becomes important to understand the legal recourses available to you for protecting your assets, mental health and reputation.
Get a Prenup
While divorces are often not the first thought on our minds when getting married, it is always best to prepare for the worst-case scenario. Make sure you speak to legal counsel before preparing or signing a prenup and that the terms and conditions are fair to both parties.
Create a Power of Attorney
Whether you are in your 30s or 40s, you must create a lasting power of attorney (LPA). By creating an LPA, you can nominate a trusted “attorney” to take decisions and actions regarding your finances (paying bills, collecting pension, selling/renting property) after you have passed away.
Look up an LPA online service to draft your power of attorney and and get it registered to make it a legally sanctioned document. Other forms of estate planning include creating a will or opening a trust.
Know Your Rights
Whether it is a dispute at work, with a family member, or even with a stranger (say in the case of an accident), it is important to know your rights. Always seek legal help to understand the future course of action and how you can safeguard your reputation and best interests.
Be Mindful
Being mindful will help you beat stress, anxiety and other negative emotions. Some of the best ways to practice mindfulness is by:
- Practicing yoga and meditation
- Make it a habit to journal or write affirmations in the morning
- Undertake physical activities and spend time in nature
- Focus on tasks that are within your control
- Let go of any negative emotions
- Be present with yourself and those around you
Summary
The fast-paced lifestyle, the effect of social media on our mental health and the current economic climate all impact our mental health.
By being mindful of the triggers and taking proactive measures, you can avoid stress and stress-inducing situations. You can also seek professional help from counsellors, hypnotherapists and psychologists to understand your emotions and take control of your life.