This week has been extremely busy and stressful. One of my coworkers that I work closely with is out on “paternity leave” since his wife just had a baby, so I have gotten some added responsibilities while he’s gone. Some of the work was expected, but some was quite unexpected. I’ve honestly been really proud of how I’ve handled the week so far, so I thought I’d use today’s blog to share what I have been doing this week to help control my stress.
Make To-Do Lists
I’ve always been a fan of writing lists, as I mentioned in this blog, and I especially recommend this if you’re having a busy or stressful week. It really helps to have something visual to reference when prioritizing your workload. There isn’t much in this world that’s more satisfying to me than crossing something off a list!
Ask For Help
Asking for help, or asking questions, is something I’ve learned to be better at over the years. I used to be afraid of asking for help, and always wanted to try to figure everything out on my own. However, I’ve definitely learned that it’s better to ask if you’re unsure about something. It’s also not a bad thing to ask for some support on something. For example, with my added responsibilities this week, I’ve had trouble keeping up with my normal everyday work. To remedy this, I started delegating work to our interns. They are always happy to help, and it is such a relief when they’re able to take things off my plate for me.
Think of the Future
I’ve found myself thinking “what would Future Shelly want you to do right now?” a lot this week. For example, I went in early to work yesterday, and stayed late today to knock off some of my to-do’s, simply because I knew I would thank myself later. Since I work a salary job, it’s hard to feel motivated to put in extra hours, as I won’t be paid extra. However, I had a lightbulb moment where I realized it’s better to get things over with today as opposed to putting it off. And I have to say, I think Future Shelly will be quite happy I put in the extra hours.
Make a Playlist
I’m sure I’m not the only person who finds music to be very soothing and therapeutic. I like to write down songs I hear on the radio and then make big Spotify playlists of all the new music I find. This week I’ve enjoyed blasting my playlist “Current Faves” on the way to work, on the way home from work, and even a few times at work. I’m one of those people who doesn’t have a problem with concentrating with music playing, and in fact I find it calms me and helps me focus at times. It also is always sure to put me in a good mood. As a matter of fact, I’m listening to my new playlist right now!
I hope you enjoyed reading my secrets to handling stress! Can you relate to any of these? Are there tricks you use to relieve stress that I didn’t mention? Let me know in the comments!
“I knew I would think myself later.” Should be “thank”? Be chill, work smart! Love Dad
Thanks! (Or should I say “thinks”?) 😛 Fixed it!
Yayyyy Shelly for handling some unexpected stress – more of a caseload. Definitely can be difficult at times, but it seems like you’ve got a great grip on things! And also know, the stress is only temporary and you should be and feel proud of yourself!! 🙂
Thank you so much! I definitely feel better after getting a lot done this week, and do feel pretty proud as well! 🙂
So many helpful tips! Thanks for sharing, I’ll definitely try them 🙂
Samantha | https://samanthacarraro.wordpress.com/
Thanks Samantha! Glad you found them helpful! 🙂
To do lists are my salvation. It’s soothing to see what I need to do laid out in a neat list, and so satisfying when I cross everything of it.
Exactly! I feel the same way. Gotta love those lists!
Yes! I’m a huge fan of lists and music! Music helps everything “gel” for me!
Glad you agree! Thanks for your comment! 🙂
Great tips. I’ve been pretty stressed lately. So I’m happy to read this and will try it out. It’s so busy at work. Msybe some of these things will change a bit how it feels. Thanks.
I’m sorry you’ve been stressed lately. I definitely relate to being busy at work. I really hope some of these help you! 🙂
Great tips! I like switching from podcasts to playlists throughout the day. They both help with motivation.
I love podcasts too! My two favorites right now are Dear Sugar and Ladies Who Lunch.
I will have to check those out! My two favorites right now are YouNeedABudget (YNAB) and the ProBlogger podcasts.
I’ll have to check those out too! 🙂
Hi Shelly! I have nominated you for the MakeItUltra™ Blogger Award for quality content, originality and presentation. If you choose to accept please visit http://MakeItUltra.com for details. If you choose to decline, please take it as a compliment that I have recognized you for your quality work.