Growing through stress and anxiety is something many of us are still learning how to do. It’s been a mix of motherhood, chasing dreams, holding space for others, and trying not to lose myself. Stress and anxiety have a way of creeping in unannounced. There are days I feel like I am just trying to keep my head above water. But over time, I’ve learnt that while these feelings may be a part of life, there are mindful ways to grow through them with intention and grace.
1. Naming My Feelings: The First Step in Growing Through Stress and Anxiety
In the past, I used to suppress my emotions like they didn’t matter, but lately, I have learnt to name how I feel. Part of growing through stress and anxiety means giving those feelings a name—be it tiredness or fear. I’ve found that when I acknowledge what I’m feeling inside of me, I take the first honest step toward healing.
2. Taking Mindful Breaks: Creating Space to Grow Through Stress and Anxiety
I used to think rest was a luxury! But I’ve recently realised that growing through stress and anxiety means making room to pause. It could be taking a few deep breaths or a short walk. These small, intentional breaks help me reconnect with myself.
3. Setting Boundaries: Protecting My Peace
This one has been a game-changer for me. “I’ve learnt that saying ‘no’ isn’t selfish—it’s sacred. Through stress and anxiety, I’ve grown into someone who honours her limits, chooses rest over burnout, and protects her peace like treasure .” Boundaries give me room to breathe and be fully present.
4. Practicing Self-Kindness
It’s easy to be hard on ourselves when we feel we aren’t measuring up. But one thing that helps me in managing stress and anxiety is choosing kind words over criticism. I remind myself: I’m trying, I’m learning, and I’m allowed to rest.
5. Embracing My Season
Comparison steals peace. True growth begins when you embrace your season and honour your journey. Even the smallest step forward becomes powerful when it’s taken with self-awareness and acceptance.
6. Exercise:
Movement is my medicine. On days when stress feels overwhelming, I take a moment to stretch or step outside for a walk. These small acts of exercise aren’t just about staying active—they’re a reminder that growth through stress and anxiety isn’t only mental. It’s physical too. Exercising helps release tension, resets my mind, and grounds me in the present.
7. Creating Gentle Routines for Growing Through Stress and Anxiety
I no longer rush into my mornings. Instead, I ease in—listening to inspiring podcasts, journaling, praying, or letting soft music play in the background. These simple rhythms help me stay grounded. Amidst the stress and anxiety, they’ve become quiet anchors, helping me grow, one mindful morning at a time.
Final Words on Growing Through Stress and Anxiety
So take a deep breath. Release the need for perfection and embrace where you are. Growth is a journey, not a destination—it’s the quiet, daily steps forward, the moments of grace, and the soft understanding that you are where you need to be. You’re not behind; you’re simply becoming, evolving with every choice, every breath. And in this shared journey, know that you are never alone.
Take a moment today to acknowledge how far you’ve come. Be gentle with yourself and remember—you are becoming, and that is enough.
14 thoughts on “Growing Through Stress and Anxiety”
I sure learnt a lot today. Thank you Cheta for
That means so much to me—thank you! I’m really glad you found it helpful. Always happy to share.
This was such a refreshing and honest read. I love how you emphasized naming our feelings as a starting point; it really resonated with me. The reminder to pause and be mindful couldn’t have come at a better time. Thank you for sharing this auntymi.
Thank you for your thoughtful words! I’m glad that it resonated with you. It is truly powerful when we can name our feelings. Sending you love.
Such an inspiring read! Thank you for sharing.
Thank you so much! I’m really glad it inspired you. I appreciate you taking the time to read and share your thoughts
I need to get my earpiece/ear pods back, I used to listen music whilst I walk in the morning and that used to always lift up my spirit, but lately it’s all just been a rush and at the end of the day I’m almost numb.
Thank you for sharing this.
I’m so glad this spoke to you. It’s amazing how small habits like listening to music can really shift our mood. I hope you get your earpiece back soon and find your rhythm again. You deserve those uplifting moments, even in the rush.
Indeed, rest is sacred.
This is really inspiring, as a medical student, Stress is like a second nature to me. But after reading this article, I’ve learnt to understand that stress can’t stop you from Growing and Evolving.
Thank you .
Thank you so much! I’m really glad the article resonated with you. Being a medical student comes with so much pressure, so it’s amazing that you’re choosing to grow through it. Keep evolving—you’re doing great, and your awareness is a powerful strength!
This article is so relatable. Stress and anxiety can be so overwhelming, but thanks to these helpful tips .
Hard times build endurance and shape us into better people. Growing through stress and anxietymeans learning, becoming stronger, or improving yourself as a result of going through difficult or uncomfortable situations.
Imagine you’re learning to ride a bicycle for the first time. At first, you’re scared. Your heart beats fast, your hands are sweaty, and you’re nervous—you might fall. That’s stress and anxiety.
But you keep trying. You fall once or twice, maybe cry a little, but you get up. After a few days, you start balancing. A week later, you’re riding smoothly. Now you’re confident. You’ve grown.
So what happened?
The stress and fear didn’t stop you.
You used them as motivation to practice and improve.
That difficult experience helped you become better.
As a student and mom , public speaking can make you anxious . You shake and forgets words during first presentation. Instead of giving up, you practices more, joins a speaking club, speak with your mirror and learns how to manage fear. Over time you would be a confident speaker. Your anxiety is the starting point of growth.
Stress and anxiety can feel bad, but they can also push you to develop new skills, strength, or courage—if you don’t give up.
Absolutely! This is such a powerful reminder that growth often starts in uncomfortable moments.