Blog Post by Lucy Collins
In today's fast-paced world, everyday life can often feel overwhelming and non-forgiving if we are disconnected from ourselves and our values. The relentless pressure to meet deadlines, achieve goals, and to keep up with the rapid pace of society can take a toll on our mental and physical health, and it can feel difficult to book in time to rest and slow down.
In a capitalist society, where success is often equated with productivity and financial gain, it's easy to feel like we're constantly racing against the clock, trying to keep up with the demands placed upon us, and to feel like we’re not actually living for ourselves.
In this blog post we’ll explore signs that you may be being affected by the expectations of capitalism, and ways in which you can support yourself.
Signs that you might be reaching burnout:
Psychological Signs/Symptoms:
Chronic exhaustion and feeling drained
Feeling lonely and detached (detachment from your job or personal life)
Asense of ineffectiveness, being more sad/angry/irritable/cynical than usual
Procrastination
Emotional outbursts/emotional dysregulation
Anxiety and persistent low mood.
Physical symptoms:
Headaches
Fatigue
Stomach issues
Changes in appetite and sleep
We are bombarded with constant messages that tell us we need to ‘do more’, ‘be more’, and ‘achieve more’ in order to be successful, whether this be on social media, or the constant attempts to grab our attention and engage us on posters, or live adverts everywhere we go.
It can sometimes feel like there’s not a moment to think or check in with how we’re feeling, and connection with ourselves and intuition often becomes diverted through constant outside stimulation, (which in a way is what the intention behind capitalism is, it relies us to 'do' and not to 'be').
The constant pressure to perform can lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout if left unacknowledged.
So, how can we navigate the pace of modern life while still prioritising our mental health?
Set Boundaries: In a society that glorifies ‘busyness’, it's important to set boundaries and prioritise self-care. This means learning to say no to things that don't align with your values or goals, and carving out time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation.
Practice Mindfulness: Mindfulness techniques, such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, can help to calm the mind and reduce stress. By staying present in the moment, we can better manage the pressures of everyday life and prevent ourselves from becoming overwhelmed by future worries or past regrets.
Seek Support: Don't be afraid to reach out for help if you're struggling with your mental health. Whether it's talking to a trusted friend, family member, or mental health professional, seeking support can provide you with the tools and resources you need to cope with stress and navigate life's challenges.
Redefine Success: In a capitalist society, success is often equated with financial wealth and professional achievements. However, it's important to remember that true success comes in many forms and can vary from person to person. Instead of measuring your worth by external markers of success, focus on what truly brings you fulfilment and happiness.
Take Breaks: It's okay to take breaks and rest when you need to. Pushing yourself to the brink of exhaustion in pursuit of success is just not sustainable in the long run. Make time for rest and relaxation, and prioritise activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul.
Challenge the Status Quo: Capitalism thrives on the exploitation of labour and the constant drive for growth and profit. As individuals, we can challenge the status quo by advocating for policies that prioritise the well-being of people and the planet over corporate interests. By discussing and working together to create a more equitable and sustainable society, we can help to alleviate some of the pressures associated with living in a capitalist world.
Managing our mental health in a capitalist society requires intentional effort and self-awareness. By setting boundaries, redefining success, and becoming more present with our needs we can navigate the rush of modern life and choose to slow down, prioritising our mental health and well-being.
Remember, you are more than your productivity, and your worth is not determined by your financial success or how much you are ‘achieving’ at world. Take care of yourself, and remember that it's okay to slow down and enjoy the journey, in fact it should be a priority.
If you are interested in finding out more about hypnotherapy and how it could help support you in your life, contact me today to book in your Free Initial Consultation: lucy.collins@groundedchoicehypnotherapy.com
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