Stress: it's a feeling everyone can relate to. Whether you're in high school, college, a demanding job, or are busy balancing being a parent with all of your other responsibilities, stress is the language of all. It can take over your body physically and emotionally and can instantly ruin a day. DON'T LET IT HAVE THIS POWER OVER YOU! Here are five ways to gain control of you life and leave stress in the dust.

1. Make Time For Yourself

Do at least one thing that makes you happy every single day. I know, this is much more difficult than it sounds. Many of you are probably thinking, "I don't have time for that!" If you think about that, it's honestly really sad that some people feel they don't have any time at all to make themselves happy! Take ten minutes to watch a funny video on Facebook, eat your favorite snack, or even paint your nails! You will thank me later.

2. Organize

This is my personal favorite. Most of the time when I'm stressed it's because I feel like I have so much to get done and not enough time to complete it all. My mind will play tricks on me and make me think I have WAY more to complete than I actually do. Physically making a to-do list or schedule helps to organize exactly what needs to be done when it needs done. Organization will ensure that you don't forget anything and seeing all of your tasks on paper makes them so much more achievable.

3. Put Your Phone Away

Procrastination and not getting things done almost always comes back to how much time we spent checking Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter while we were suppose to be working. I know, it's so hard to not answer that text or not check your notifications while you're phone is sitting there begging you to use it. Well here's my solution: turn it off and keep it out of sight. Lock it in your closet if you have to. You will be AMAZED with how much you get done without the distraction of your phone.

4. Start Your Day With God

I can't emphasize this one enough! This has made the biggest difference in my life, personally. When I start my day off with a devotion, journaling, reading my Bible, or even watching sermons on YouTube (my favorites are Jon Jorgenson, Kolby Koloff, Sadie Robertson, and April Cassidy), my day is instantly better. I have a fresh perspective and feel a sense of peace first thing in the morning and positivity seems to follow. I can't say I do this one every single day, but I try to at least twice a week.

5. Get Outside

Getting outside just automatically lifts moods. Being one with nature is super de stressing and helps us to refocus. Being stuck inside all day is confining and exhausting. Going outside gives our brains a nice break and feeling the warm sun leaves an instant smile.