Whenever I feel overwhelmed with all that life gives us, these four methods are sure to ease my mind and to relieve some stress.
Use a Journal/Talk to Someone
Whether you're stressed about conflicts with a friend, your career goals, or something that happened in the past, it can be helpful to express your concerns. Depending on the situation, talking to a friend can be more helpful in receiving advice and outside perspectives. If you're not looking for advice, then try writing down your worries in a journal. This can help to lift some weight off of you mentally and to vent privately. Regardless, both of these methods are sure to make you feel better about your burdens.
Be Kinder to Yourself
Beating yourself up over everything will only make situations much worse. Whether it's because you had a cheat meal, received bad grades, or let down a friend... talking down to yourself will only result in negativity. Instead, try to reword your negative thoughts into positive ones!
Exercise
This is probably the last thing you want to do when you're stressed, but exercising can help to clear your mind and to focus on something else for the time being. I find that going for a run outside can be especially therapeutic, especially with the right playlist. Taking out your frustrations in the gym or playing your favorite sport relieves stress, and improves your health so you're bound to thank yourself for using this method.
Read a Self-Help Book
Self-help books are great if you're in need of motivation or feel like you're "in a rut." Positive encouragement is likely to uplift your spirits and provide an optimistic perspective for your concerns or doubts. Obviously, Oprah is the go-to person for this department, but I also recommend "The 5 Second Rule" by Mel Robbins. Both of these authors provide a calming but inspiring narrative that's sure to sweep away any negativity in your mind.
If you're feeling overwhelmed, doubtful, or stressed these four methods will certainly ease your burdens and provide optimism for the future.