❼ How to Stop Working Late & 9 Other Quick Fixes for a Stressful Life

Lately, I’ve been on a mission to keep my mind light, free, focused, and clear.

The reason for this is that I’m learning the incredible power that my mind has over my life.

The other reason is that I noticed that some people are just trifling and if I allow them to bring their triflingness into my life, it would be my own fault.

So far, I’m really happy to report that I’ve found some very effective ways to achieve this goal of having a happier, calmer, headspace.

1. Fix for a Long Day

Every night, I turn off my bathroom lights and light a candle next to this bamboo plant from my lovely sister, Jaimers.

Sometimes, I even rub my back and feet while I’m at it.

2. Fix for Stressful People

I block people that I consider to be a threat to my mental health.

This means that they text me but I never receive the messages.

When they call, they leave messages but my phone never delivers them.

3. Fix for Facebook

I use Facebook to sell my book, let people know I’ve updated my blog, and find contact information.

I don’t use it for entertainment, to keep up with friends, or to procrastinate.

4. Talking to Myself

I take long walks where I talk to myself about every and anything.

Sometimes, I even tell myself funny jokes, then I laugh at how funny my jokes are.

5. Fix for an Overactive Mind

My brain never stops and, sometimes, I don’t have the energy to make it stop.

So I just engage it by listening to a good book I’ve borrowed from the library or purchased from Audible.

6. Fix for Most Worries

I make lists of things to worry about later.

Most of the time, I forget where the list is and completely short circuit the process of worrying altogether.

7. Fix for Long To-Do Lists

I’ve learned 2 new phrases recently:

• “honor yourself”
• “love yourself”

These two phrases help me let go when my to do list doesn’t get done.

I repeat them enough times to really believe them. Then I shut down my laptop and enjoy my nightly spa treatment.

8. Fix for Feeling Overwhelmed

I have a new boyfriend now. His name is Evernote.

I never start my day without telling him what I plan to do that day.

This action alone gives me a sense of purpose, calm and direction until it’s time to tell myself to “honor myself” and “love myself”.

9. How to Stop Working late

I have an app on my phone called 30/30.

It allows me to see exactly how long each task on my to-do list will take.

This helps me to be about 1.5 million times more realistic (and intentional) about what I intend to achieve in each 24 hour period.

10. Fix for Feeling Unattractive

I have one goal each morning when I get dressed: impress myself.

Once I achieve this goal, I’m a lot less concerned about what others might think of my dressing or if I look “good enough” that day.

Your Turn

• What would you add to this list?
• How do you feel about blocking people on your phone?
• What stresses you out the most: work, friends, or family?