Why You May Feel Like You
“Work Better Under Pressure”
Do you oftentimes have a hard time getting things done without an imminent deadline? Do you feel like you work better under pressure? Or are you relying on stress to fuel your work or boost your energy because you’re burnt out? If so, you’re not alone. You may be living in a chronic freeze response, or survival mode.
If you’ve been living in a chronic freeze response, it may be difficult to feel motivated unless there’s a large enough stressor to activate you out of that low energy state. A freeze response is essentially when you have to face a trauma or stressor and “freeze” up in the face of chaos. In a freeze response, you may make decisions that don’t feel aligned with who you are, have trouble setting boundaries, become a “yes” person, or try to please people because you’re struggling to think for yourself or feel present. When this freeze response becomes chronic, it can also become addictive. If you’re constantly relying on stressors to keep you going, you may need these stress hormones in order to feel productive.
You may not be conscious of why, but if you’re in a chronic freeze response and tend to work better under pressure, it may suddenly feel like you’re managing one crisis after another with an already maxed out system running on empty. And then the body speaks to you in the form of new physical symptoms to get your attention. The cycle won’t end until you get the appropriate support for your unique physiology.
I personally lived in a chronic freeze response for the majority of my life. I never had enough energy to get motivated unless something was a big enough deal to spike my adrenaline and spring me into action. This looked like constantly waiting until the last minute from everything like delaying dental work or finishing term papers & work obligations.
My first step out of this cycle was recognizing what was happening & why.
For me, this was a process of trial & error that ultimately led me to realizing my biology was adapting & doing its best to keep me alive. After experiencing complex trauma without any support, my body had little energy left except to survive - performing basic functions, but not optimally.
I needed nourishment on every level in order for my nervous system to shift into a state where recovery could take place. Finding the right support was key. You may need to work with a trauma trained practitioner and/or integrative healthcare provider to help guide you back from just surviving to truly living. If you would like to begin your healing journey with a guide, I am here to help. Learn more about my journey to nervous system regulation here and find resources that will help you on your healing journey here.
Never be afraid to reach out. I’m here to help. If you want daily support or tips, I encourage you to follow me on Instagram and Pinterest.
Until next time.
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