I can’t believe we are already at the end of the year. It’s been a long roller coaster ride for me and I’m thankful for every part of my journey. I hope it’s been an awesome one for you too.

The holiday period is here and I know how we tend to have so much going on and this can often lead to pressure. Things like trying to impress others, organize, put things in place, and meet up with tight schedules or deadlines at work. All this can eventually lead to stress.

This is why, I decided to share some really good tips that can help you maintain your cool even under stressed or tensed atmospheres.

Take a deep breathe

The first thing to do when in an abnormal situation is to take a deep breathe and calm down. Get away from the noise or drama happening around you and just breathe. This will help you focus on what’s really important and ease the tension you feel.

Listen to a relaxing song

This is one thing I do always, I put on my earphones and just relax with a cool classical or inspiring song. Sometimes, I just listen to strings or the piano playing. It soothes the nerves and keeps me cool, calm and collected.

Think about the meaningful progress you’ve made so far

Not everyone can do this especially when under intense pressure or difficult situations but if you can, it thus help too. Try to think and reflect on all that you’ve accomplished so far and the progress made. If you haven’t accomplished anything, then reflect on everything that went right for you. It will motivate you!

Be Positive

The last thing you want to be found doing is responding negatively. It makes it all worse and leaves you feeling empty, discouraged and depressed. Try to be positive by thinking positive. Watch positive things, listen to positive things, do positive things. Detach yourself from every form of negativity and get more positive people around you.

Stop setting unrealistic deadlines

I know this can be beyond you but, you have to stop it. Set clear realistic goals only. Don’t be afraid to ask for more time to finish up if need be but, please don’t choke yourself with so much to avoid getting stressed, ending up with low standards and expectations. Give yourself a good and realistic deadline.

Learn to say ‘NO’

I learned this a long time ago. You can’t please everyone because, there will always be someone who feels you are not doing enough. So, instead of wanting to be nice and feel liked by everyone due to fear of conflict, rejection, or opportunities, learn to say NO especially if it will displease you or make you feel uncomfortable.

Get help

I am not too good at doing this but I’m learning everyday that it’s actually okay to ask for help from someone you trust. You can also try calling your friend or loved one explaining the situation on ground. Their reply may just be the only thing you need to help take all the stress out. When you share your concerns, worries or feeling with another person, it helps relieves the stress.

Get some sleep

Am I the only one who finds it difficult trying to sleep under serious tensed situations? I find myself rolling all over the bed. You may experience difficulty sleeping when faced with serious problems but, if you can it helps a lot. Some say, lack of sleep is one of the most significant cause of stress. How true?

Avoid Caffeine, Alcohol, and Nicotine

I brought this last because I feel it’s necessary we all know that caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol are strong stimulants of stress. And rather than it reducing your stress level, they tend to increase it. Try as much as possible to avoid it.

So, how do you manage stress? How do you keep your calm while under stressed or tensed atmospheres? What has helped you? Share with me and others below.

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