STRESS...

Y'all, I have a LOT going on... like an abnormal amount of "stuff" happening all at once. I am not one to share my entire life on the Blog so we wont go into details, but believe me when I say there is a lot going on. For example, I have a stress sore on my lip and have consumed 2 cups of coffee and it isn't quite 9:00 AM yet. #stressed

How does one handle a million things at one time? How do you manage a million people's schedules and differing personalities? How do you keep your composure and class while you are pulled a million different ways? My friends, I wish I had the answers to these, but sadly I do not. This post unfortunately does not have the "magic answer", but I can share how I have been coping.

#1. Learn to say NO! It is ok to say no. People will understand and if they don't, then you don't need that in your life. Own your no!

#2. Stand up for yourself and what is best for you. As a people pleaser and extrovert this is very hard for me. I can be a "door mat" at times and let people walk all over me. I am really working on saying NO and standing up for myself and what is best for me.

#3. People may not agree with you and that's ok. We all have different opinions. If someone disagrees, that is fine. What matters is respecting one another.

#4. Make time for yourself. You cannot be "on" 100% of the time, it is impossible. Make time for a run, bath, or quiet time away from all of the noise. Even if you are like me and CRAZY busy, make time away a priority. You cannot be your best self when you're drained and exhausted.

#5. RELAX! Life gets crazy and hectic. We are only human and cannot be expected to be any more or less. Whatever you have going on, know it will get done. Also remember you're not perfect and that is okay!

#6. Be honest. Talk to the people around you and let them know you are stressed. Chances are those people will help or understand when you get emotional.

#7. Know what and who to keep in your life and what/who to let go. We are all adult's and deserve to be treated as such. If there is someone or something that is making you feel negatively get rid of it. Life is WAY to short. Surround yourself with positive people and things that make you happy.

#8. Make lists. Write down in priority what needs to get done and slowly cross items off. Yes, once you cross one off, ten more will get added, but at least you have a visual of things getting accomplished.

#9. Ask for help! It is ok to tell others how you feel and that you need help. No one will think any lesser of you. Being honest is the best policy for all parties involved.

#10. Hold your head high! "You is kind, you is smart, you is important". Remember these grammatically incorrect words from "The Help" because they are true. You are a good person, you are smart, and you are loved and important and most of all you can do this!!!!

Selfishly, this post was for me, as a reminder to myself that I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. How do you handle stress?