Maybe you’re like me, and right now, you feel like you have way too many things on your plate. You feel like you’ve bitten off more work than you can chew, and you keep running into things that only stress you out, make you feel overwhelmed or make you feel like giving up.
Heck, I even began writing this article because I feel those things, too (everyone does), and stress is a hell of a recipe for writer’s block. I couldn’t think of anything else other than how stressed out I am. Go figure.
If you’re even more like me, you like lists. Your planner is your best friend. You can’t imagine life without sticky notes or colored writing utensils. So, without further ado, here’s a to-do list for the person who feels like they have too much on their plate— a to-do list to help you get through this slump.
1. Identify the things that are stressing you out
Is it work? School? Relationships? Sort your thoughts out and think about what’s getting to you. Write them all down.
2. Take a step back and decide which of those things are worth stressing over
Ideally, none, but figuring out which areas of your life are in genuine need of attention and care can help you navigate what really matters and let go of the things that don’t. Take a breath and realize that maybe you do have enough time to get those readings done, or that the disagreement you had with your S.O. last night wasn’t a big deal, after all
3. Make a game plan
Prioritize and organize. Do the things that need to get done ASAP first, and realize that you can’t get everything done at once. You’re only human.
Also, make sure you make a game plan that is attainable— cramming your to-do list with things that are impossible to get done will only make you feel worse.
4. Take breaks; take care of yourself
Just because you have a lot on your plate doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice self-care or the activities that help you to de-stress (okay, maybe you can’t do wine night this week, but you get the idea). You’ll only feel worse sitting in the same spot in the library all day, or staring at the same computer screen for hours on end. Go on that run. Take a power nap. Call your mom. Stretch. Listen to music. You’ll be so much more productive in the long run if you take time to take care of yourself.
5. Remember that this is temporary
You’ve had busy, stressful times like this before, but you’ve also had plenty of good, stress-free times, too. Life isn’t a linear path, so relish knowing that things will get better. This feeling isn’t permanent.
6. Know that you are capable
Like I said, you’ve had stressful moments like this before— the most important part is remembering that you got through them, time after time. You are capable of making it through the hustle of bustle of your life right now, and you’ll remain capable of conquering whatever stressful times come your way in the future.
“If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you.”