Dear Stress,

I know this might be hard for you to hear, but I’ve had about enough of you. I’ve tried letting you down easy before and it hasn’t worked, so this is my last resort. I know you’re probably going to think about all our "great" memories together, but they weren’t great for me, not at all. I’ve tried just about everything to get rid of you. Some of it works for a few days—others not so much. From retail therapy to weekend vacations, you always seem to creep back up on me. You’re always on the back burner of my brain and occasionally when I’m least expecting it, you begin seriously bubbling up like you’re about to explode. I think you must have thought I had forgotten about you.

Trust me—with the amount I have to do I would never forget about you. That being said, it is no excuse for suffocating me with your chaos. As far as I’m concerned, you can hit the curb along with anxiety and worry. We need to go our separate ways. This relationship is no longer healthy. You’re clingy and needy and constantly trying to bring me down. You’re hovering over me and I just need some time to breathe.

I'd also like you to know I don't appreciate feeling like I can't do everything I need or want to do. I know I can, and that it's a lot of work -- but I know I will make it. Sometimes I may need a little help (no thanks to you) but, I am strong and you need to stop making me weak. Just stop being so negative! Without you I know I’ll be a happier, care-free person. My time management will become better and I'll feel more alive. I just won’t deal with you smothering me anymore.

I know you’re just about inevitable, so I may see you again from time to time. I just want you to know that’s perfectly fine, I just need some space from you now. I can only take so much of you at a time, you know? For me, you're good in small doses, but I can't be around you all the time. Midterm week went well and everything, but you know, spring break is really calling my name—and I think I should focus on me. Relaxing and enjoying the sunshine will really be good for me. Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll be able to find plenty of other people out there.

You’ll always be there in the background trying to make me crazier than usual. Just know I’ll be waiting with better habits. Agendas, planning, sticky notes, and other stress relief techniques are bringing me closer to positivity. Now don’t get all jealous on me, positivity just brings out the best in me. I just don’t have any more time for you stress, and I honestly can not wait to get rid of you.

Don’t take this too hard. Maybe we can catch back up again around finals week, but for now, goodbye Stress.