How Do You Manage Stress? Five Self-Care Mindset Tips and Ways to Achieve Them

It’s no secret; stress is an integral part of almost everyone’s life. And, of course, how we handle it can make or break us . . .

Here are five tips that can help us mentally cope:

1. Treat yourself like you would treat your best friend. You deserve it.
2. It’s okay to say “no” to something you don’t want to do. This little act can also be empowering.
3. Invest in yourself. It doesn’t have to be financially. Sometimes “time” is even more valuable than any form of currency. If there is something you want to do, start making it happen . . . don’t wait.
4. Focus on your accomplishments, not your failures. There’s a reason “We all make mistakes” is considered cliché . . . It’s true. Learn from the mistakes, but don’t dwell. A positive mindset will take you forward. There’s no need to waste time dwelling on the past.
5. Keep a sense of humor. Sometimes we need to take a step back and find the humor in situations. Laughter can be therapeutic.

A few things you can do to make it easier to adjust your mindset include:

1. Get enough sleep. Yes, caffeine can be our friend, but there is just no replacement for real sleep. I know, sometimes that is almost impossible between family obligations and work . . . but try to plan for 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep . . . I know, I know . . . goals! Ha! Not too surprisingly, a well-rested mind simply works better.
2. Take a walk outside. If you live in a climate like I do, it’s quite toasty out this time of year. Still, try to get outside and go for a walk . . . even if it’s a short one. Of course, pick a time of day when the weather is more tolerable. The fresh air and exercise can be relaxing and mind-clearing.
3. Establish, and maintain, a routine. (Okay . . . stop laughing . . . haha!) If you have kids, this may seem virtually impossible . . . Kids are complete variables. But try to establish a loose framework and go from there. Having a routine promotes productivity which ultimately can relieve stress.
4. Laugh more. Find a way to laugh more. Take a few minutes and search Pinterest for some funny quotes. Join a group that focuses on humor on Facebook. Watch a few minutes of your favorite sit-com.

I hope these suggestions are helpful!