There are certain people, and I am one of them, that take on too much sometimes. It's not that we can't say no, it's just that we think we can handle all of it. I'm guilty of piling too much on myself, and I have found new ways of decompressing, getting everything done in a timely manner, and most importantly taking care of myself.

Here are just a few things I have found that help me stay centered:

1. Find your outlet.

What's the one thing you love to do the most? During hunting season, I take advantage of the peace and quiet, something that gives me time to gather my thoughts. If I have time on a weekend, I choose to ride horses because its one of the things that bring me happiness. When the outdoors aren't an option, I have found that writing and drawing are good ways to sit back and take time to yourself!

2. Plan out your days.

Time management is key for anyone's day, but when you take on too much it becomes extremely important. Put the deadlines at the forefront of your schedule, and then lay out the rest so that it's done in a timely manner.

3. Take a break during the day.

Do you sit at a desk all day doing paperwork? Do you go to back-to-back classes for hours every day? Find time to stand up, walk around, and even sit outside for a minute if you can. Sometimes the eyes and brain need to take a break from staring at papers, notes, and computer screens.

4. Don't forget to make time for others.

We tend to forget about the other relationships in our lives when we are too busy. Family comes first, but you can't neglect your friends either. Friends and family keep you grounded when life gets crazy and overwhelming, and their certainly the best ones to talk to when you're looking for a listener.

5. Don't quit.

It can be tough to keep going when it seems like there's no end in sight. Work piles up, due dates creep up faster than expected, and time certainly flies. Keeping up with everything life throws at you can be difficult, but don't let it get the best of you!

Don't let this world swallow you whole. Instead, be your best you, chase your goals and dreams, take time to decompress at least a few times during the week, and spend the weekend doing the things you love!