Being Stressed is Never a Flex

Stress and being overworked are synonyms. The notion of work stress has become an almost ubiquitous part of our lives. It's not uncommon to hear individuals boasting about how busy they are, how many tasks they have to juggle, and how little sleep they're getting. Some even wear their stress as a badge of honor, treating it as a sign of productivity and dedication.

However, being stressed is not a flex, nor should it be glorified. In fact, it can have serious negative implications for both our physical and mental well-being.

Stress is not a Status Symbol

The idea that being stressed indicates importance or achievement is a flawed concept. True accomplishment is not measured by the number of hours spent working or the amount of anxiety one feels. Rather, it's about the work quality, the impact made and the ability to maintain a balanced life. A

A person who manages their time effectively and prioritizes self-care is often more successful in the long run than someone perpetually on the brink of burnout.

Glorifying overwork

When stress is seen as a symbol of success, individuals are more likely to push themselves beyond their limits, ignoring the warning signs of physical and mental strain. This can lead to a cascade of negative effects, including compromised immune systems, sleep disturbances, and even chronic illnesses.

Chronic stress is addictive.

Chronic stress can be habit-forming and can contribute to the development of anxiety and depression, taking a toll on mental health. Ultimately, embracing stress as a positive attribute only fuels a cycle of diminished well-being.

Equally concerning is the impact of overworking on relationships. Those who consistently prioritize their work and stress over social interactions may find themselves alienating friends and family members. The inability to be present in the moment due to a constant preoccupation with stressors can hinder meaningful connections.

Isolation from others can further exacerbate the negative effects of overworking, as social support is known to be a key buffer against its harmful consequences.

Shifting the narrative around stress is a must for every worker out there. Instead of glamorizing it, we should focus on developing healthier attitudes towards work and life. Time management, delegation, and setting realistic goals are essential skills that can help individuals achieve success without sacrificing their well-being. Cultivating hobbies, spending time with loved ones, and engaging in regular exercise are all proven ways to manage stress effectively.

Am I stressed?

I'd say it's on a healthy level. I am most happy when I am not so busy that I feel overwhelmed, but busy enough to feel like there isn’t quite enough time to get everything done.

Why Every Library Needs a Hometown Authors Shelf and How to Promote Them

I have previously written about building a Local Authors Collection in a library in a previous post, How to Start a Local Authors Collection . Now, I will discuss further why this is mandatory for every library, especially public ones. All libraries often highlight international bestsellers—but what about the author who lives just down the street? A Hometown Author Shelf tells the story of your community, written by its own people. Local authors offer unique perspectives that national voices can’t. Their work may reflect regional issues, dialects, history, or folklore that rarely reach mainstream publication. Also, they don't have many followers, because they're just doing their thing and not getting much attention. This is where the library comes in. When patrons see familiar names or places in print, it deepens their emotional connection to both the library and literature. It says, “Your story matters here.” It also attracts local media attention, potential donors, and mo...

How to Start a Local Authors Collection in Your Library: 3 Steps

Looking to celebrate the voices in your own backyard? Starting a Local Authors Collection is one of the most meaningful ways to connect your library with its community. This will also promote your library to locals who may not have heard that your library is open and accessible to everyone! It will also send the message that you value your local authors and would like to work more with them in the future! Step 1: Audit! Begin with a simple audit: Do you already have hometown authors on your shelves? Create a list. Then, reach out to local writing groups, independent publishers, or universities—places where emerging writers often surface. Step 2: Curate! Don’t overlook self-published authors. Many have strong followings and are eager to share their work. Establish clear submission guidelines to ensure quality and consistency. Step 3: Promote! Highlight the new collection with shelf signage or a dedicated reading nook. Monthly features or “Local Author Spotlights” on social media also ...

How I Use My Starbucks Planner to Keep Myself Accountable

Let’s be honest: most of us buy those Starbucks planners because they’re pretty, not because we’re planning to become meticulous schedulers. At least, that was my initial intention—until I realized it could be the accountability tool I desperately needed. Now, my Starbucks planner is less about appointments and more about keeping track of my daily battles with self-discipline. Here’s how I use it to monitor three key areas of my life: resisting the urge to smoke, watching my calorie intake, and moving my body. 1. The Smoking Tracker This is the toughest section to fill out because it demands raw honesty. At the end of each day, I mark whether I resisted the urge to smoke—or if I gave in. There’s no judgment here (okay, maybe a little self-judgment), just a simple note: "Resisted" or "Gave In." I also jot down what triggered my cravings. Was it stress? Boredom? A sudden existential crisis while folding laundry? Writing it down helps me notice patterns, and when I...

Ruby Galvez, RL

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