Have you ever heard the story about the frog that was slowly boiled to death? It’s not just a chilling metaphor, it’s a powerful reminder of how we adapt to stress without even realising the damage it’s causing.
Now, let me ask you this: have you noticed any of these symptoms in the past week?
Feeling constantly stressed or on edge, like you're stuck in "fight or flight" mode?
Struggling with your body shape or size despite eating well and exercising?
Craving sugar or carbs more than usual?
Relying on caffeine just to get through the day, even if it leaves your heart racing?
Feeling easily startled or overly sensitive to noise?
Waking up exhausted, even after a full night's sleep?
Experiencing a "second wind" at night that throws off your sleep schedule?
Feeling "tired but wired" all the time?
Worrying constantly or battling anxious thoughts?
Breathing shallow and fast without even realising it?
Saying "yes" to everything, even when you’re already overwhelmed?
Not laughing as much and carrying a sense of urgency in everything you do?
Feeling crushed under the weight of your to-do list?
If you’re nodding along, trust me, you’re not alone. These are all signs that stress has quietly taken over, becoming your new normal.
The Frog in the Pot
When life throws us into a boiling pot of stress, like a major crisis or big change we instinctively react. We jump, escape, or problem-solve because the heat is unbearable.
But what about when the temperature rises gradually?
When stress builds slowly over time?
That’s when we start adapting.
We cope.
We push through.
And before we know it, we’re that frog in the pot, completely unaware that the heat is harming us.
The truth is, our bodies weren’t designed to live like this, on edge, 24/7. Chronic stress wreaks havoc on your nervous system, zaps your energy, and makes it nearly impossible to enjoy life.
Turning Down the Heat
It’s time to pause, reflect, and take action before the water gets any hotter. You don’t have to overhaul your entire life overnight. It starts with just one small step to prioritise your wellbeing.
Here’s a challenge: what’s one thing you can do this week to dial down the stress?
Maybe it’s setting a boundary and saying no to one commitment.
Taking 5 minutes to breathe deeply and reset.
Swapping out one coffee for water, Happy Juice or herbal tea.
Laughing with your kids, fully present and screen-free.
Every small step adds up.
For more support, you can download a free Download my SOS Burnout Cheat Sheet: 5 Minute Strategies to Calm Overwhelm and Reclaim Energy to get you started.
Merly Hartnett, INHC HCANZA Accredited Career & Burnout Coach @ Nurture Ambition Helping mums balance career growth with joyful motherhood. Discover if coaching is right for you - book a free chat here.
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