Having lists helps you to remember things like what you need to do or what you need to buy. This can reduce stress because if you write down reminders as you go, then you aren’t trying to recall previous thoughts when in the middle of a busy or overwhelming situation. Imagine when you’re in the grocery store, trying to think back to what you meant to get, and not being able to remember. You get annoyed or even angry. Having an ongoing grocery list, like in the notes app of your phone, elements that mental stress and makes the grocery store a breeze.
Bills have to get paid, and coming up with money is stressful enough. Don’t add to your burden by having to keep track and manually do everything each month. If there are things in life you can set on autopilot, such as bill pay, take advantage of those features. It helps ensure items are completed on time with far less of your attention.
3. Put yourself first
Being selfish isn’t a bad thing. When work gets busy or your children are overwhelming you, and stress levels start rising, don’t be afraid to take care of yourself. Take a few minutes away or do something you know will help you feel better. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
4. Get moving
Depending on your health and physical abilities, movement and activity are different for everyone. No matter your level of ability, if you can get some movement in your day, whether a 5 minute walk around the house or a 50 minute run, this can create chemical changes in the body to reduce stress levels – plus provide other health benefits.
5. Establish habits
If you stress over making sure things get done, building a habit can help. Let’s say you go to work early in the morning and have to rush to get ready each morning, which increases stress and may set you up for a rough day. Instead, establish a habit of getting things ready the night before – this sets you up for success the next morning and starts your day with less stress.
6. Practice mindful thinking
Being mindful of what might be causing stress can help identify that the issue maybe isn’t as bad as we think. Let’s say you’re worried about a presentation at work – take a moment to objectively consider WHY you’re stressed. Identifying the causes of concern allows you to either refute them or address them, which should help you feel more prepared and less worried.
7. Laugh
Whether it’s turning on a silly TV show, or going down a funny video rabbit hole online, getting in a few laughs can instantly make you feel better and change your mood.
8. Give yourself grace
No one is perfect. Being ok with that and allowing yourself some missteps is important to reducing stress. Give yourself grace and recognize when you’re expecting too much from yourself.
9. Get some fresh air
This may be harder depending on the season or weather, but if you are able to get a few minutes of fresh air, that can help improve your mood and lessen your worries.
10. Spend time animals
Pets can be an incredible source of stress relief. Animals typically are perceived as non-judgmental and often loving. Snuggling up to a cat or dog on the couch can instantly make you feel better and decrease stress. If you don’t have pets, try skimming animal photos and videos online – how could that not make you feel more relaxed?
