Situations can sometimes get very demanding. We have no control over them and suddenly feel pressured by circumstances that come our way. We may not be aware, but we too put subtle pressure on ourselves and spend vital time and energy handling it. These pressures within our control, we can do without.

Comparisons create pressure. We may not be jealous and may actually be happy at others doing well, but if we are not careful, a sub-conscious comparison can start building discontent and pressure to try and catch up.

Trying to please everyone creates pressure. We win a lot of appreciation from people but if we are not careful and haven’t developed the ability to say no, we start catering to expectations beyond our capacity, building stress within.

Procrastination creates pressure. When we start something we always feel we have enough time, but by the time we reach the deadline, we are always short of time. Losing precious time upfront creates much avoidable pressure.

Taking things for granted creates pressure. We often forget that if we stop doing the things that got us to where we are, we will slide back. Things don’t remain in place without effort. This is true of our professions, health, and most importantly our relationships.

Expecting things to work out just the way we have planned it and leaving little room for change creates pressure. Planning is good, getting anxious about the results is not.

Over the years we learn how to manage pressure. But we need to equally learn how to avoid building the pressure that is in our control. Having set our direction in life when we stop stressing about the big things and start doing every small thing in a big way, we experience the joy of life in every experience and relationship. And the candle of joy dispels the darkness of pressure.

(Picture – Jericho Beach,Vancouver)