10 tips for sanity when life is insane.

You know that feeling. . .that gut-wrenching, nail-biting feeling of "oh my goodness there is so much to do. . .so many deadlines. . .ahhhhhhh!!! So little time!?" We have all been there, and you are most definitely not alone. Take me, for example. Right now I am positively swamped with work. A huge event to plan before I leave for Colorado, not to mention blogging (since I want to get serious. Hey, it IS a relationship, of sorts, ;) ) church, friends, family, job hunting. . .the list goes on. And on. And on. And. . .

Sooo. . .here are a few practical (and fun!) tips that have helped me stay (somewhat) sane, and will hopefully motivate you to be confidant and focused, no matter how big or small your project. Or life. :P

1. Make lists. List making has been a lifesaver for me. Especially since I have a brain that thinks big and fast, and once I get rolling, idea after idea just pops in. I'll forget within minutes if I don't write down at least a rough overview of my inspiration or goal--for that day or the big picture. Right now I have a quickly scribbled list on my dresser, right where I can see it, but if it helps to be tidy, type something up and stick it on your wall, carry a copy in your purse. . .wherever you can get a quick reminder/motivator throughout the day.

2. Don't freak out. Stay focused. Sure, you want it done now, but remember, you are only human. One thing at a time. Working on one project for an hour or two, or taking an afternoon to complete a single task, are good goals. Finish what you've started, and check it off your list.

3. Set goals. What is the first thing you do when you wake up? Making a mental schedule of your day will help you feel satisfied and able to relax later on. Who wants to snuggle with pj's and Netflix when there is half-finished work? Take it a step at a time. Trust me, it'll be worth it, and you'll leave feeling refreshed and ready to conquer. . .the couch.

4. Take some time for yourself. The blog can wait. Remember. . .patience is a virtue. Please, please take a break now and again to refresh and rejuvenate. Take a walk. Make a healthy, energy-boosting smoothie. Stretch. Get inspired on Pinterest. You might even take the day off to just chill or go shopping. Don't forget to live outside the insanity.

5. Create comfort. If your working from home, make yourself comfortable. Atmosphere is key. I'm a "feelings" person, so I like to create ambiance, no matter where I am. Grey, cloudy day? Cozy and calm. Sunny and blue skies? Energy. Light a candle or sip on a hot drink. Pull on a comfy sweater or tee shirt and shorts. Preparing your mind by pampering your body goes a long way in getting a yucky job completed.

6. Don't procrastinate. This was a huge one for me to learn! I'm a "eh, I'll do it next week," kinda gal by nature. Doesn't exactly "redeem the time," especially with big projects and deadlines. Waiting until the last minute will only stress you out.

7. Utilize Google Drive. Spreadsheets are an awesome way to keep track of people, events, numbers, you name it! I like putting specific documents in specific folders to keep everything easily accessible. Color-coding is also helpful for organizational purposes. 

8. Stay hydrated. Water is a life-giving, energy-replenishing source of liquid goodness! Keep a large water bottle handy at all times, and yeah, there may be extra trips to-you-know-where, but trust me, it is so worth it! Your brain will be so much happier and wide-awake.

9. Work alone. If possible, work alone, especially at a computer. . .even if that means a trip to the library or local coffee shop. Makes for better concentration, and thus, faster, more efficient work! Eh, so this is probably a no-brainer, but I needed something to fill #9. ;) 

10. Have fun! The project will be completed, sooner or later. Staying focused, hydrated, creative, and organized is all about good planning and attitude. Cheerfulness is a choice. You, my friend, can do it!

Happy project-ing! Hope this was a helpful little list. Again, I'd love to hear your tips, and oh my goodness, I forgot the most important thing of all. . .pray. No matter how stressed or overwhelmed you are, Jesus is the answer. He never gives us more than we can take. You are a beautiful creation, and worth so much more than anxiety and stress. Work hard, set goals, and go take on life!