As I write this, my mind is slowly cascading into the abyss better known as Writer’s Block.

I’m lying in the grass with my little red notebook, admiring the way the trees dance in the wind, when the most beautiful cardinal I’ve ever seen lands right in front of me, enjoying the breeze. His feathers such a rich red, and his eyes bright and curious. With one swoop, he takes off again.

And then it hit me—that’s what gets me through my day.

Stepping outside myself and focusing on something else gives my mind the break it needs to rest and gather my thoughts. Appreciating and taking note of my surroundings helps me to feel content and enjoy whatever I’m doing.

No matter what stage of our lives we’re at, we’re all busy doing something. It’s so easy to get lost in the ebb and flow of deadlines and to-do lists. Taking a moment to step back will save your life from the chaos and stress before it overwhelms you. Here are 8 ways to do that:

1. Admire your hard work

Perhaps you’ve been working day in and day out, moving from one project to another without looking back. Look over your shoulder and praise yourself for all the hard work you’ve done. Taking note of where you started and comparing it to where you are now can boost your confidence and motivate you to keep doing the best you can.

2. Don’t overlook small gestures

Some days you wake up after a stressful night to a hearty breakfast laid out for you. Maybe someone at work got you coffee or a stranger held the door open for you. Maybe your friend complimented your new sweater or you came home to an empty kitchen sink and clean dishes.

Each of these gestures proves that you are loved, respected, and appreciated. Someone went out of their way to do something nice for you, to make your day a little easier. Be sure to let them know you appreciate it.

3. Reciprocate kindness

It’s not enough to just accept or be thankful for the kind things done for you—give back and pay it forward. What better way to appreciate things than to show others how to appreciate them, as well?

4. Make time for family and friends

Stay in touch with loved ones, remember birthdays and important events. Go out for coffee with your roommate so you can listen to her jokes and be up to date on her life. When Crazy Aunt May sends you another coupon in the mail, take a second to call her up and let her know she’s important to you, or just call to say hi—you’ll both be glad you did.

5. Get in touch with nature

This doesn’t mean that you need to start pulling over during your morning commute to gawk at a field of dandelions (but would that be so bad?).

The world is so much bigger than us. Take a walk among the trees, watch the birds fly, or sit by a lake or the ocean, watching the water move. This isn’t for everyone, but sometimes we need to take ourselves out of our heads and realize how small we are, and how beautiful and significant the world around us is. Take time to acknowledge all the beautiful little things life has to offer.

6. Slow down

Slow down, even if just for a moment. Putting ten minutes aside to relax, breathe deeply, meditate, and contemplate can really make a difference. Giving yourself a break can help you to center your focus or to de-stress. Have a cup of tea, bake a batch of your favorite cookies or listen to your favorite album. Your mind shouldn’t be running marathons all day

7. Focus on the present

It’s easy to get caught up in what others are doing (or NOT doing) and what’s coming up next. The only thing you can change or work on is yourself and right now. Why waste your time worrying about what you can’t control? You only have one life, and each day is a new and exciting gift that you only get to experience once.

8. Most importantly, enjoy your life

Live every day like it’s your best and be mindful of all the good around you. Be proud of what you do and who you are, and recognize the value of the amazing people and meaningful things around you.

Have fun and be happy!