My Best Strategies For Managing Stress & Information Overwhelm

Strategies for Managing Stress & Information Overwhelm.

“Pressure can burst a pipe, or pressure can make a diamond.”- Robert Horry

I am a self-proclaimed perfectionist. I pride myself on delivering a high standard of work and like to say ‘yes’ to taking on new challenges and opportunities. Whilst this characteristic can often act as a great motivator, it often results in me burning the candle at both ends. A demanding and stressful full-time job, managing my blog, working on on personal projects and the demands of daily life have often left me feeling stressed, exhausted and overwhelmed.

Managing stress and overwhelm in everyday life is vital for maintaining your overall health. Effective stress management can improve your mood, boost immune function, promote longevity and allow you to be more effective.

Over the years, I have developed some really effective strategies to help me manage stress and overwhelm. I wanted to share my top tips with you here:

1. WORKOUT DAILY

I personally find that working out is the most effective method to help me manage stress. I usually work out early in the morning as no one can take this time away from me. Previously I would leave my workouts to the evenings and due to demands at work I would often miss the gym, leaving me feeling even more stressed and frustrated. Scheduling a workout in the morning means I have control over the situation and am accountable for waking up early and getting to my class.

When I am feeling particularly stressed, I like to plug in my ear phones, listen to some rnb music and go for a one hour coastal walk. Something about the fresh ocean air breeze and sunshine does wonders for my soul.

2. MEDITATION

I recently started meditating using the HeadSpace App. Taking just 10 minutes in the morning to meditate has enabled me to start each day in a better frame of mind. Meditating helps me to feel grounded, grateful and calm. It has also enabled me to better control my thoughts, connectedness and improve my focus.

3. RE-FOCUS

There have often been times where I’ve felt overwhelmed by the volume of tasks, emails and requests being thrown my way. At these times, I know it’s time for me to calibrate and re-set my priorities. I usually sit down with a paper and re-write my to-do list. The simple act of putting pen to paper eases the feeling of overwhelm, and helps me block out all the noise.

4. CALL A FRIEND

There are times where I simply just need to vent to my husband, or have coffee with my best friend. Surround yourself with people who understand you and know how to help you see the bigger picture. There are so many instances where I have wanted to give up because certain projects are not getting the traction I want. The people close to me have been able to help me get back on track and keep me accountable. Surround yourself with people who want the best for you and will take you higher.

5. SCHEDULE IN DOWN-TIME

There have been times I have felt so overwhelmed that my daily email notifications have been enough to tip me over the edge. Try blocking some time out of your day to go device free and enjoy some quiet time. Light a candle, read a book or run a long bubble bath. These simple practices may be just what you need to help you feel re-energised.

MANAGING STRESS & INFORMATION OVERWHELM

What are some of the strategies you use to manage stress? I would love to hear any other tips or practices you use. Please leave your comments below!