Do you ever feel bogged down in a pile of work that seems inescapable? Is your to-do list higher than what you have done? We've all been there. Sometimes it's just like there's not enough time in a day to feel truly productive, especially not as most go back off to school or work. It's easy to let your mind get caught up in what has to be done or what you're worrying or stressing about, rather than how you can implement some peace and fun into your life. The ideas I have listed below personally worked for me when I've felt overwhelmed or stressed out so hopefully, they'll be of some benefit to you as well.
Try Meditating or Other Methods of Practicing Mindfulness
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Alright I know what you might be thinking. Oftentimes people may feel a little skeptical about meditation or instantly think it won't work for them. I used to be one of those people, but recently I decided to give it a try since I've started college. In trying it recently, I have had a different perspective and outlook on even the most mundane parts of life. I notice things more than ever and I've grown a deeper appreciation. It will take time but you will find that your mind will potentially be more peaceful through meditation. If this still doesn't sound like your type of thing, another mindful practice you can try is writing a list of five things everyday that you're grateful for. You can be as simple or in depth with that as you want, but overtime your mind will become more aware of these things and will be more appreciative.
Watch Your Favorite Show
I'm not going to lie, finding time in your hectic schedule to take even just 20 minutes to watch an episode of a really good show feels amazing in the long run. If you really think of it, this is a moment to decompress for however long an episode is and think of nothing but what you're watching. It's a great way to take your mind off of everything and just relax. Even if you're feeling like there's no time for that either, some episodes are short enough to build into your day. You need a break from working anyway, so why not give it to yourself?
Have a Jam Session to Some Great Music
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Not to sound cliche here, but music is seriously a healer for me. I could feel at my lowest and it would instantly lift my spirits. So, drop everything you're doing and just have a dance party even if it's just yourself. Get up and dance without worrying about how you look or anything else. Dance down the halls and make everyone look at you if you want. This is a regular thing for me, but I have so much fun with my music that I don't care about the looks. For extra fun and preparation, you can even make a playlist of all of your favorite songs to be ready for when you need it.
Spend Some Time With Your Friends
I don't know about anyone else, but my friends are literal superheroes that can solve any problem. Even just ten minutes with them is a lifesaver. Having a solid group of friends makes a world of a difference because you can talk to them about anything and nine times out of ten they will have the perfect answer. Me being me, there are some cases where I don't even say a thing (because I'm an introvert) but I still enjoy their company. Make sure you have some really great friends to carry you through life.
Treat Yourself After Hitting a Goal or Checking Off a Big To-do
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Nobody likes having a thousand things to do. That's just a fact of life unless you're one of the rare people that actually enjoys that. Anyway, one of the best ways to handle this is treating yourself. This can be done in multiple ways: either little things like candy or breaks, or big things for larger achievements; little by little (spending x amount of time being productive) or all at once (checking everything off the list). If you have something to work for, it makes pecking at your list easier and more motivating. No one ever said that you can't add some fun to what you have to do.
Indulge in a Bath
This may very well be another cliche but I'm adding it anyway. Yes... bath time, my friends. I'm a huge fan of taking baths over showers but I unfortunately do not get that luxury as often as I'd like because of how many things I have to do. If you feel the same way, maybe this can even be one of your treats for doing so much work. Honestly I don't know what it is, but there's something about lying down in a cosmic explosion from a bath water and just staying there forever that makes you feel great. Take that quiet time for yourself to feel refreshed and relaxed, but please, if you plan on watching Netflix in the tub be careful!
Take a Walk or Go Exploring
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Ok so yes, you walk everyday, but that's mostly just to get from a to b. How many times do you just go for a walk without a real purpose or destination? If this isn't a regular thing for you, maybe you should give it a try. Doing this gives you the chance to realize things about your area or discover things you didn't even know existed. You also get this time to be alone with your thoughts (if you choose to walk alone) and spend more time learning about yourself. You can learn what your deepest desires are and make your masterplan of how to get yourself there.
Be Creative
Who doesn't love some quality arts and crafts? A lot of the people I know don't always have the luxury to sit down and play with crayons anymore, but I say go for it. Be that five-year-old again. Doing some crafting is also the perfect way to express yourself, your thoughts, and your emotions. I'm not saying you have to paint or anything, but you can if you want to. You can also try writing or photography to express yourself or just have some fun. Whatever it is that you enjoy, take the time to just go for it again.
Go to the Gym
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The gym isn't always the most fun place in the world, but it's a perfect place in this situation. Putting your body to work physically like that is the perfect remedy for any stress. I know so many people have said this, but it couldn't be more true. During your sessions, your mind is on something else like other gains, but if it's not you can turn that around and put your work out on the stress. Hit something or go that extra mile to beat the stress out of your head. You may feel tired at the end of all of it, but you'll feel so much better.
Volunteer Somewhere
This may sound like more work, but I promise it's worth it. Volunteering somewhere can be a lot of fun depending on what you're doing and it makes a lot of people feel great in the long run. You can end up doing some really interesting things during your time there and may even learn a thing or two. Not only will you experience this, but there's also a good possibility that you may even meet some people that you connect with. They may even end up being a new friend for you, so why pass up a golden opportunity to have another positive person in your life? I've done a lot of service and always came out of it feeling positive. I highly recommend that you give it a try.
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