Stress – it gets to the best of us. It’s normal and even healthy to experience a certain amount of stress in day to day life; it’s what keeps us on our toes! However, if you’re finding yourself feeling stressed out 24/7, then it’s time to make some changes and get serious about stress-busting. In this article, I’ve listed my top tips for handling stress (and believe me, as a content creator and business owner, I have plenty of experience in this field! Let’s talk about how to handle stress like a (girl) boss. 

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Exercise 

Ask any mental health expert how to handle stress and they will almost certainly recommend exercise.

Whenever I’m feeling stressed, a good workout helps me no-end. Exercise releases a flood of feel-good hormones into your body, helping to boost your mood and reduce stress. Even just a quick HIIT session often gives me a fresh perspective on what I thought was a bad day and helps me to feel in control once more. 

For free workouts to suit all styles, abilities and time availability, check out Aaptiv. They add new virtual classes every week and you can even create a program tailored towards your specific goals.

Prioritize Sleep

One of the top ways how to handle stress is to SLEEP.

I know, it’s tough. You’re stressed, so you work late and cut down on sleep… but the lack of sleep will only serve to worsen your mood and send your stress levels even further through the roof. I know it’s tough, but you have to learn to switch off your laptop and prioritize sleep. A regular sleep routine sharpens your judgement and promotes a positive mindset, whilst reducing stress. 

If you’re struggling to get some shut-eye, I highly recommend this luxury pillow spray. I swear it’s like a natural sedative – as soon as I smell it, I start to relax and feel pleasantly sleepy, no matter how stressed I’ve been during the day.

For more tips on getting a better night’s rest, check out this article.

Take Weekends Off

Ask anyone how to handle stress and they’ll probably tell you “improve your work-life balance.” But of course, that’s easier said than one.

When you’re growing your empire, it’s all too easy to work all weekend, every weekend. It’s only natural to want to put in the hours, but it is crucial to maintain a good work-life balance and have other hobbies besides work! 

Why not spend a gorgeous wellness weekend recharging in the sunshine at the Cal-a-Vie wellness retreat or Shou Sugi Ban House if you’re located further north? Both are well worth the trip. There are so many reasons to go on a wellness retreat so be sure to check out my article on the best wellness retreats in the USA.

Or if you’re more of a city break kind of girl, why not head to one of these awesome US cities for a domestic staycation with your friends? Kicking back and laughing with your loved ones is an excellent way to manage stress.

Outsource 

If you’re running your own business, a little stress is to be expected. However, if stress has become your 24/7 state of being, it’s time to outsource. So many budding entrepreneurs try to do everything themselves for far too long but this approach is a one-way ticket to burnout. 

Yes, you’re the “leader” of your business, but you can’t build an empire alone! Part of being a leader (or entrepreneur) is learning when and, crucially, how to delegate. Whether that means hiring a virtual assistant to schedule your social media, getting outside help with web design or outsourcing admin, it’s time to stop trying to do absolutely everything yourself.

Limit News Consumption

Let’s be honest: watching or reading the news is a pretty stressful affair right now. 

Whilst it’s important to stay informed, it’s far too easy to get fixated on the never-ending stream of bad news. By limiting your news consumption, you can prevent yourself from getting into the habit of doom scrolling. I put a 15-30 minute limit on myself so that I don’t get too overwhelmed with it all. 

Keep a Journal 

Keeping a journal is a great way of expressing yourself and letting it all out when you’re feeling overwhelmed with stress.

Many mental health experts recommend getting into the habit of stream-of-conscious journaling for a few minutes each morning to “get it all out” before you start your day. 

Alternatively, you could keep a gratitude journal in order to keep things in perspective when you’re feeling stressed.

Personally, I like to write at the end of the day and pour out all of my thoughts before I go to bed. It helps me process the events of the day and it’s great for reflection at a later date. 

Besides, who doesn’t love an excuse to buy cute stationary? I’m a huge fan of these sleek notebooks from the Goodee x Karst collection. After all, your thoughts deserve the best! 

Break Projects Down Into Small Steps 

Whatever you’re feeling stressed out, be it a work project, fitness goal or even just housework, it’s time to stop looking at the big picture for a moment. Break your goals down into small, achievable steps to give you a clearer picture of your progress. This will help you to see that you can do it after all, and stop you dissolving into a puddle of stress.

Learn How to Say “No”

I find that women in particular tend to be far too accommodating. Want to know how to handle stress? One of the most powerful steps to take is to learn how to say “no.” 

Know your limits. Don’t be tempted to take on more than you can handle to try to please somebody else. It’s not cruel or offensive to say no – it’s an act of self-care! 

The next time someone asks too much of you, say something like “thanks for thinking of me, but I’ve got too much going on right now” or “I’d love to help, but unfortunately I’m far too busy as it is!” Be kind and polite, but stay firm and don’t apologise. You have to put yourself first. 

For more on caring for your mental health, take a look at the following:

• How to Care for Your Mental Wellbeing During the Covid-19 Pandemic 
• How ASMR Can Help With Pandemic Anxiety 
• How to Create a Luxury Wellness Retreat At Home