Finding Balance: Managing Stress When Life Feels Overwhelming
Let’s face it, we all have those days (or weeks!) where life feels like it’s spinning out of control. From work pressures to personal commitments, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news? You don’t have to live in a constant state of stress.(And shouldn’t!) Finding balance may sound tricky, but with a few simple shifts, you can bring more calm into your life.
Start Small
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, tackling everything at once can make you feel even more frazzled. Instead, focus on small steps. Break it down. Prioritize what absolutely needs to get done today, and let the rest wait. You’ll be amazed at how much lighter you feel just by easing the pressure on yourself.
Learn to Say “No”
This one’s tough, I know! We’re often pulled in so many directions because we don’t want to let others down. But guess what? You’re allowed to say “no.” It’s not selfish to protect your energy; it’s necessary. Saying “no” frees up space for the things that truly matter and allows you to recharge. Really! Try it.
Take Breaks—Seriously!
Even if you have a long to-do list, you still need breaks. In fact, taking time to rest is one of the best ways to manage stress. Whether it’s a quick walk around the block or a few minutes spent practicing deep breathing, stepping away from your tasks can do wonders for your focus and mood.
Here’s a handy little massage tool that is small enough to fit in your purse or leave at your desk. Take a few minutes to relieve the tension in your neck and shoulders.
And this little squishy cube is amazingly satisfying and stress-relieving.
(#Affiliate. I receive a small commission at no cost to you.)
Embrace Imperfection
Remember, balance doesn’t mean everything is perfect. Life is messy, and that’s okay! Some days will be more hectic than others, and that’s just part of the ride. Instead of striving for perfection, aim for progress. Be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned. Expecting that something will come up helps relieve the stress when it does.
Another option that’s helpful for me is noise canceling headphones. These are quite inexpensive, but good quality in both sound and structure, with really great battery life.
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The Bottom Line
Finding balance isn’t about juggling everything flawlessly—it’s about creating space for yourself amidst the chaos. By taking things one step at a time, learning to say no, and giving yourself permission to rest, you can keep stress in check and feel more at peace. You’ve got this!
Joyfully, Shari
Shari@sharilarson.com
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