Are Ordinary Events Too Important to You?

By Dave Balch Blogger

Rate This

Photo: Getty Images

It recently occurred to me that we can generate a lot of unnecessary stress by placing too much importance on relatively minor events in our lives.

During the gas crisis in the 70’s, and several times since, neighborhood gas stations lowered their prices by, say 20 cents per gallon. They did it for the publicity, and cars were lined up around the block to take advantage of the low prices. C’mon, people… if you buy 20 gallons of gas and save 20 cents per gallon, you’re looking to save $4.00. (Less, of course, the cost of the gasoline that you use going out of your way to get to the sale and then waiting in line.)

Think about the stress that that causes. Will I get there on time? Will there be a long line? Should I leave earlier? Will I be late for work if the line is too long? I have to drop the kids off at school so should I get the gas before or after? Jeez, the line is moving so slowly; am I going to get out of here on time?

The real question is whether that stress is worth the less-than-$4.00 you are going to save. I think not.

The Oscars are coming up soon and we never miss it. But we have a wedding to go to that day and we’ll have to rush home. If the reception runs late we will be antsy to leave. Sure, we could record it but we like to watch it live. Is it worth the stress of chomping at the bit to hit the road, and then stress about possible traffic and other delays? I think not. We’ll record it.

You have a special friend that promised to call you at a certain time. This call is very important because, to you, it reveals how much they care about you and whether the relationship will progress. Anticipation of the call is very high which is stressful by itself. The appointed time comes and goes without a call, and now you are feeling rejected and are losing hope that this person really does care. More stress. But really, does the call really mean what you think it means and if they didn’t call is that the reason or were there extenuating circumstances? The more importance you place on this call, the more stress you will have waiting for it and dealing with the aftermath if things don’t work out the way you hope.

Here’s the point: make sure that you place the proper importance on things and events in your life because the more important you make them, the more stress you generate around them.

Think about it. Are your “important” and “really important” things really as important as you think they are? Are they worth the stress they generate? Maybe they are.

Maybe they aren’t.

Dealing with cancer, some other major illness, or life in general? Our free daily tips will help you cope: sign-up at http://www.CopingQuickies.com For even more stress management tips and techniques visit http://www.CopingUniversity.com where world-class experts share their wisdom to help you cope. Hours of FREE online audio programs will help reduce your stress and restore your hope. Topics are unique, unusual, fascinating, and just plain fun! Learn how to find humor when nothing seems funny, how to love the way you look no matter what, and how to be romantic even during a serious illness. Our online content is always free, so visit today! And, check out our YouTube channel for entertaining coping ideas: http://www.YouTube.com/copinguniversity

Add a CommentComments

There are no comments yet. Be the first one and get the conversation started!

Dave Balch Blogger View Profile Send Message

We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.