Stress is a major problem for many people. A stressful job, a chaotic home life, bills to worry about, and bad habits such as unhealthy eating, drinking and smoking can lead to a mountain of stress. If your life is full of stress, there are some simple things you can do to get your life to a more manageable level.

I won’t guarantee that all of these will work for you. Each person is different, so pick and choose the ones that will work best for you, and give them a try:

1. One thing at a time - This is the simplest and best way to start reducing your stress, and you can start today. Right now. Focus as much as possible on doing one thing at a time. Clear your desk of distractions. Pick one thing to work on.

2. Get moving - Do something each day to be active — walk, hike, play a sport, go for a run, do yoga. It doesn’t have to be gruelling to reduce stress. Just move and have fun while doing it.

3. Do something calming - What do you enjoy that calms you down? For many people, it can be the “get moving” activity discussed above. But it could also be taking a nap, or a bath, or reading. A lot of people are calmed by household or garden or yard work. Some people like to meditate, or take a nature walk too. Find your calming activity and try to do it each day.

4. Simplify your finances - Finances can be a drain on your energy and a major stressor. If that’s true with you, figure out ways to simplify things. Automate savings and bill payments and debt payments. Spend less by going shopping (at malls or online) much less. Find ways to have fun that don’t involve spending a lot of money.

5. Get creative - Throwing yourself into a creative activity is another great way to de-stress and to prevent stress. I like writing, but others like to paint or play music or sketch or write poems or do interior design or build things.

6. Have a blast - Have fun each day, even if it’s just for a few minutes. I like to play with my kids; they take my mind off everything and are really hilarious. I also like to play sports (again, often with my kids). Board games are a lot of fun. Whatever you choose, be sure to laugh.

7. Develop one healthy habit this month - Other than getting active, improving your health overall will help dealing with the stress. But do it one habit at a time. Eat fruits and veggies for snacks. Floss every day. Quit smoking. Cook something healthy for dinner. Drink water instead of soda. One habit at a time!

Try these and I hope one of the above works for you! 

Stay Happy! Stay Blessed!