Simplifying your life is a nice way of telling yourself to manage your stress. Today we are so overconnected and committed we hardly take a minute to take stock of ourselves and the value in our lives. Taking control of the things that feel “out of control” will help to reduce being overwhelmed. Here are a few suggestions:
Clear clutter
Unfinished projects and piles are sources of stress, believe it or not. They are reminders of things we have to do or haven’t finished. Tackle one pile at a time. You may even get on a roll.
Focus on good / gratitude
This will make you more happy. Remind yourself what you do have
and what is good in your life. Make a habit of shifting your perspective away from negative thoughts and toward positive ones.
Assess your relationships
Evaluate which relationships are focused on the right things and take steps away from those that aren’t. Relationships should be about thriving and positivity, not depleting you and making you feel bad about yourself.
Detox from digital
Disconnect from everything digital (phones, emails, tablets, etc.) at least once a day. Take a walk, read a book, take a nap, do a project, anything that doesn’t require technology.
Make lists
“To do,” “Things I want,” “Things I need.” Disorganization in your mind is stressful. Lists are simple ways to organize and take a load off your mind.
Track time commitments
Take stock of where you spend your time. Prioritize things that add value to your life. Let go of things that you’ve been needing or wanting to do. It’s OK to say no.
Be good to yourself
Spend time on yourself. We are so connected to the outside world that we forget to take time for ourselves. There is a saying that goes, “You can’t pour from an empty cup.” If you are feeling emotionally taxed, remember to put “you” first and be kind to yourself.
Examine your bills
Is there something you could do without? Maybe you haven’t watched or enjoyed watching TV lately. Put your service on hold – you can always turn it back on. If you are paying for a gym membership that you don’t use, cancel it. Take a walk instead.
Organize your closet
Sort your clothes by color. Donate garments and related items you don’t wear.
Minimize multitasking
Multitasking isn’t effective time management. You think you are getting more things done at once – what is really happening is you are so busy thinking about what is next that you aren’t present. Effectiveness and quality take a hit as well. Focus on one thing at a time and move on to the next.