The Power of Common Sense in Managing Stress and Anxiety

By Chris A.

In recent years, stress and anxiety have become two of the most common challenges faced by students and working adults alike. Deadlines, responsibilities, and constant pressure to achieve often leave people overwhelmed and exhausted. While medication is sometimes necessary and effective for certain mental health conditions, many psychologists argue that good old-fashioned common sense may be just as important, if not more beneficial, when it comes to preventing everyday stress. Strategies like pacing oneself, taking breaks, and avoiding the trap of living only for the next big rest—whether that is a vacation or even retirement—can go a long way toward improving psychological wellness.

One of the most practical approaches to reducing stress is pacing oneself. Rather than working nonstop until exhaustion, breaking tasks into smaller, manageable parts can help individuals maintain focus and energy. For example, a student preparing for multiple exams may find it more effective to study a little each day rather than cram the night before. Psychologists suggest that this kind of time management reduces anxiety by creating a steady rhythm instead of spikes of stress (American Psychological Association, 2021). Common sense tells us that no one can sprint a marathon, and the same principle applies to mental effort.

Equally important is the practice of taking breaks during work or study. Research has shown that short breaks can increase productivity, creativity, and overall well-being (Fritz, Lam, & Spreitzer, 2011). Even a ten-minute walk outside or a brief pause to stretch can reset the mind and body. However, many people ignore this advice, believing that constant work is the only way to meet expectations. Unfortunately, this often leads to burnout, where productivity plummets and anxiety increases. By contrast, those who prioritize rest and recovery are usually able to sustain their efforts over time, proving that common sense habits are not just simple, but effective.

Another trap that contributes to stress is the tendency to constantly look forward to the “next big break.” Whether it is counting down to summer vacation, dreaming about retirement, or waiting for the weekend, this mindset can create a cycle of dissatisfaction. Psychologists caution that living only for the future prevents individuals from enjoying the present, and can even amplify stress when those anticipated breaks do not live up to expectations (Seligman, 2011). Instead, a healthier approach is to find small, daily moments of rest and enjoyment. This might mean taking time to share a meal with friends, reading a favorite book, or simply pausing to breathe deeply during a busy day.

Of course, it is important to acknowledge that not all stress and anxiety can be managed through common sense alone. For individuals experiencing clinical levels of anxiety, medication or therapy may be necessary. However, for many, simple lifestyle changes can be powerful tools in maintaining psychological wellness.

In conclusion, psychologists emphasize that common sense strategies such as pacing, taking breaks, and enjoying the present can often be more effective than waiting for a distant rest or relying solely on medication. These habits help prevent stress and anxiety from building up, creating healthier and more balanced lives. By practicing these small but impactful steps, individuals can improve their well-being and truly thrive both in school and at work.

References

1. American Psychological Association. (2021). Stress management strategies.

2. Fritz, C., Lam, C. F., & Spreitzer, G. M. (2011). It’s the little things that matter: An examination of knowledge workers’ energy management. Academy of Management Perspectives, 25(3), 28-39.

3. Seligman, M. E. P. (2011). Flourish: A visionary new understanding of happiness and well-being. Free Press.