Managing Stress for Success

Do you ever feel like the to-d0 list never ends? That you're constantly in a state of stress, and usually answer the question, "How was your week?" with, "Busy"? These days, it seems like most people feel that way and that busyness has become the norm. Being relaxed or having nothing to do is a rare occasion. Better yet, it's a miracle!

Hey GEM girls! Have you recently told someone you were too busy, or have you been feeling unusually exhausted lately? I know I have! It's so easy to fall into the "stress trap"- set high goals, challenge yourself, say "yes" often and get involved in multiple areas. I mean, isn't that what school is all about? Pushing the limits and getting ready for the life that's waiting out there? Though these are a healthy part of our development and our growth, the amount of stress they invoke sometimes can be tough to bear and can become too much.

But rest assured, there's a solution! In fact, I did some research to find the best way to relieve stress. Maybe you feel like it's time to recharge. Check out a couple of the tips I found:

Do what you love

As simple as it may sound, sometimes it can be hard to let go of our tight schedules and long list of chores to do the things we love doing the most. I don't know about you but there is just something wonderful about taking the time to do something you genuinely enjoy and find relaxing, whatever it is! There is no rule or limit to what you find to be the most rejuvenating. For some it's exploring the culinary arts, playing a favorite instrument, reading an interesting book, working out in the morning, dancing in your room to your favorite music... the list is endless. Personally, I love doing all the things I listed above, except cooking (I burn all the food and make a mess in the kitchen 😂).

Learn to say "no"

One of my biggest problems is saying no. So, this one really resonates with me. I just find it hard to refuse to do things or not go to events people ask me to go to - it feels like I'd let them down if I didn't. If you're also guilty of this, you know that the agenda gets rapidly full throughout the week, with events here and there, lending a hand to this person and that person... the to-do list becomes unbearable! This, over time, can lead to a big amount of stress and can become exhausting. So, when you find yourself already busy or simply don't feel too energetic one week, challenge yourself by dedicating some time to yourself or to your family. Since busy has become the norm, everyone knows that a break now and then is a wonderful, needed, refresher.

So, GEM girls, whenever you find yourself in a stressful situation or facing an abnormally busy week, try doing what you love, saying no (graciously), and of course talking to God. He knows what solutions are best and He will help relieve your workload. After all, He understands what we're going through on a deeper level and never likes to see us suffer.

Let me know down in the comments some of your favorite things to do when you're stressed out!

Wishing you all the best,

Love,