A funny thing happened yesterday
I felt the pressure in a brand new way
It kept hitting me from all directions
I got this feeling I was cracking up
My knees were shaking and I couldn’t close my eyes
I fought to gain control and make corrections
– Neil Young, “Pressure”
Life is filled with pressure. So. Much. Pressure.
We are constantly bombarded with pressure from situations, from others, and from ourselves. Sometimes it can be so overwhelming it makes us feel like we are going ‘around the bend’.
When something is pushing against us we can retreat, surrender, push back, or stand strong. Any of these responses can be appropriate, depending on the situation. Figuring out the right response can sometimes be tricky.
If a person is feeling pushed toward their life’s passion, surrendering to that pressure can bring great reward. However, if one is feeling pressured to be involved in something that doesn’t feel right, they need to summon the courage to do what is right for them. That can be one of the hardest lessons to learn. Others may not understand or agree with the choice, but ultimately it is often for the greater good.
What is pushing on you? What can you do to relieve that pressure and ultimately achieve the best outcome? Give yourself a break.