3 Habits That Make You Anxious
Feeling anxious every now and then is a part of life, but what if your everyday habits are secretly cranking up your anxiety levels? It’s true—some seemingly harmless daily routines can actually contribute to your feelings of anxiety without you even realizing it. So, are you ready to find out which habits might be feeding into your anxious feelings? Keep reading!
What Daily Habits Could Be Making You Anxious?
1. Constantly Checking Your Phone
Do you feel like you can’t go five minutes without checking your phone? If that sounds like you, you’re not alone. This habit can keep you in a constant state of alertness, always on edge for the next notification or message. What’s the problem here? Well, this behavior can disrupt your concentration and increase stress, which might make you feel more anxious over time. Try setting specific times to check your phone or switch it to ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode during certain hours of the day to help manage this habit.
2. Skimping on Sleep
Now, let’s talk about your sleep schedule. Are you cutting corners on your zzz’s? Skimping on sleep is a notoriously bad habit that doesn’t just leave you groggy—it can seriously spike your anxiety levels. Lack of sleep can reduce your brain’s ability to regulate emotions and react to stressors appropriately, making you more prone to anxiety. Aim for 7-9 hours of good quality sleep per night. Creating a bedtime routine or improving your sleep environment might help you catch those necessary hours.
3. Perfectionism in Everything You Do
Are you the type who obsesses over every detail, striving for perfection in everything you do? While aiming high isn’t bad, excessive perfectionism can be a major anxiety driver. This habit often leads to a fear of making mistakes and setting unrealistically high expectations, which can be very anxiety-inducing. Why not try setting more realistic goals and embracing the idea that it’s okay to make mistakes? This shift in mindset could significantly reduce your anxiety levels.
How Can You Start Changing These Habits?
Breaking habits isn’t easy, especially when they’re tied to anxiety. But here’s the thing: understanding these habits is the first step towards making a change. Try to gradually adjust your daily routines. Maybe start by turning off notifications for an hour each day, then slowly increase that time. Experiment with relaxation techniques before bed to improve your sleep, or practice mindfulness to combat perfectionism.
FAQs About Habits and Anxiety
1. How long does it take to break a habit that causes anxiety?
Breaking a habit typically takes about 21 days, but it can vary depending on the person and the habit. Consistency is key, so stick with your new routines, and you should start seeing changes in how you feel.
2. Can these habits cause anxiety disorders?
While habits like these can increase feelings of anxiety, they’re not likely to cause anxiety disorders by themselves. However, if you’re experiencing significant anxiety that interferes with your daily life, it’s a good idea to consult with a mental health professional.
3. Are there other common habits that might be making me anxious?
Yes, other habits can also contribute to anxiety. These include a poor diet, lack of exercise, not setting boundaries, and even procrastination. Taking a holistic look at your lifestyle can help you identify other areas where changes might reduce your anxiety.
