Written by Marcelina Malinski, Registered Psychotherapist (Q)
- Establish a Routine. Establishing a routine and sticking to it can help ensure that appropriate time is allotted to what needs to get done. Structure may promote productivity and help manage time.
- Prioritize Responsibilities. Determining what to prioritize means reducing stress by completing the most important things first.
- Practice Self-Care. Self-Care should be prioritized. Take time to participate in enjoyable hobbies or activities, and tend to your own needs. These include basic hygiene needs, social needs, educational/work-related needs, and needs for personal development. You may even wish to schedule your self-care. Healthy self-care will positively impact other areas of your life.
- Be Mindful. Connect with the present moment when you find yourself distracted. Practice noticing your surroundings and pay attention to your feelings in the moment. You may wish to reflect and elaborate upon your feelings by writing in a journal.
- Stay Organized. An organized workspace that is free of clutter may help boost productivity. Organizing time according to your priorities may help you feel at ease in knowing that you are on track.
- Exercise. Physical activity reduces stress and promotes better brain health, mood, attention, and learning.
- Practice Good Sleep Hygiene. Some healthy sleep habits include: sleeping and waking at the same time each day, keeping screens out of bed, creating a comfortable sleeping environment, relaxing before bed time, and establishing a night time routine. Proper sleep is critical for brain development and overall functioning.
- Breathe and Relax. Pay attention to moments of elevated stress and focus on your breath. Practice inhaling for four seconds, holding your breath for four seconds, exhaling for four seconds, and holding your breath for four seconds, before beginning the breath again. Repeat as many times as necessary. Other exercises for promoting relaxation include: meditation, journaling, imagining a peaceful place, and listening to calm music.