Trying to juggle work, relationships, and basic life responsibilities while trying to keep your sanity intact is sometimes a whole lot easier said than done.
And when life decides to throw some curveballs your way, you can quickly start to feel like you’re going to lose your mind. When chaos threatens to get the better of you, don’t let it! Here’s how to keep your cool in even the most trying of circumstances.
1. Take a step back and breathe deeply.
When the world feels like it’s closing in, the simplest solution is often the most effective. Find a quiet spot, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Inhale slowly through your nose for a count of four, hold it for four, then exhale through your mouth for four. This technique, known as box breathing, can help lower your heart rate and reduce stress in a matter of minutes.
2. Prune your to-do list.
Take a hard look at your to-do list and be ruthless. What’s truly essential? What can wait? What can you delegate or simply drop altogether? Prioritise tasks that align with your core values and long-term goals. Remember, saying ‘no’ to less important commitments means saying ‘yes’ to your sanity. You don’t need to do everything (and you can’t, anyway).
3. Get moving when stress hits.
Exercise isn’t just good for your physical health; it’s a powerful stress-buster too. When life gets hectic, it’s tempting to skip your workout, but that’s when you need it most. Even a quick 15-minute walk around the block can work wonders for your mood and energy levels. Those feel-good endorphins are irresistible.
4. Prioritise a solid sleep schedule.
When life gets busy, sleep is often the first thing we sacrifice, but skimping on shut-eye is a fast track to burnout. Aim for 7–9 hours of sleep each night. Establish a relaxing bedtime routine — maybe a warm bath, some light reading, or gentle stretching. Keep your bedroom cool, dark, and quiet. And yes, that means putting away your phone at least an hour before bed.
5. Make over your diet for better stress management.
When we’re stressed and/or tired, it’s easy to place an UberEats order and call it a night. However, your diet plays a massive role in how you handle stress. Focus on whole foods that provide sustained energy — think fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Stay hydrated, too; sometimes what feels like stress is actually dehydration. Prep healthy snacks in advance so you’re not tempted by the vending machine when hunger strikes. Food is fuel, as they say!
6. Set boundaries with your phone.
Constant notifications and the pressure to respond immediately can quickly amp up your stress levels. Set boundaries with your phone. Turn off non-essential notifications, use ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode during focused work or relaxation time, and consider a digital detox for a few hours each day or week. You don’t need to be available 24/7. Give yourself permission to disconnect.
7. Tidy up your environment.
Source: Unsplash A cluttered space can lead to a cluttered mind. Take some time to organise your surroundings, whether it’s your desk, your room, or your entire home. Get rid of things you no longer need, find a proper place for everything, and make your space work for you. A tidy environment can help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed. Plus, cleaning in and of itself can be therapeutic, as strange as that sounds.
8. Build buffer time into your schedule.
Stop scheduling your day down to the last minute. Build in some time between tasks and appointments to allow for unexpected delays or last-minute emergencies. This extra breathing room can seriously reduce your stress levels. If nothing goes wrong, you’ll have bonus time to relax or get ahead on other tasks.
9. Adjust your perspective.
When everything feels overwhelming, try to zoom out and look at the bigger picture. Will this current crisis matter in a week, a month, or a year? Often, what feels monumental in the moment loses its significance over time. Try keeping a gratitude journal, noting down three things you’re thankful for each day. It can really shift your focus to a more positive POV.
10. Lean on your support system.
You don’t have to face everything alone. Reach out to friends, family, or even colleagues you trust. Sometimes just venting your frustrations can make you feel better. Other times, you might get valuable advice or practical help. Don’t be afraid to ask for support when you need it. Being strong doesn’t mean handling everything by yourself; it means knowing when to lean on other people.
11. Make time for hobbies.
When life gets hectic, it’s easy to let our passions and hobbies fall by the wayside, but we need these things for balance and joy. Make time for things you enjoy, whether it’s reading, painting, gardening, or playing an instrument. Even if it’s just for 15 minutes a day, doing things that bring you pleasure can reduce stress and give you a much-needed mental break from your worries.
12. Delegate when possible.
You don’t have to do everything yourself. At work, see if there are tasks you can delegate to colleagues. At home, involve family members in household chores. Learning to let go of control and trust people can be tough, but it’s an essential skill for managing a hectic life.
13. Silence the inner critic.
Source: Unsplash When things get tough, it’s easy to fall into negative self-talk, but beating yourself up won’t make things better. Be kind to yourself. Acknowledge that you’re doing your best in a difficult situation. Replace self-criticism with self-compassion. Treat yourself with the same kindness you’d offer a friend going through a tough time. You’re human, and it’s okay not to have everything perfectly under control all the time.
14. Create structure in your day.
Source: Unsplash When life feels chaotic, creating a routine can provide a sense of stability and control. Start your day with a consistent morning routine — maybe some stretching, a healthy breakfast, and a few minutes of planning your day. End your day with a wind-down routine to signal to your body and mind that it’s time to relax.
15. Celebrate small achievements.
Source: Unsplash In the midst of chaos, it’s easy to focus solely on what’s going wrong or what still needs to be done. Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your wins, no matter how small they might seem. Completed a task on your to-do list? Give yourself a pat on the back. Made it through a tough day? Treat yourself to something you enjoy. Recognising your progress, even in small steps, can boost your motivation and resilience, helping you stay cool under pressure.
