I don’t know about you guys but lately, I feel like life is moving at a mile a minute. There’s a reason why when people ask how you’re doing, the typical response is “BUSY” (or is that just a deflection method… who knows…). But in all seriousness, I know most of us can say we have a lot on our plate, whether it’s juggling work, family, a social life, and the list goes on and on. Weirdly enough, I’m someone who thrives on the busyness but it always eventually catches up to me, leaving me feeling overwhelmed (more on that here).

I think it’s somewhat normal to have a busy schedule to a certain extent, but sometimes it’s crucial to take a step back and center yourself. The worst thing is getting to a point where you’re experiencing burnout and mental fatigue (I know I’ve definitely been there) and over time I’ve mastered a few ways I like to center myself when life gets BUSY. These practices definitely help me slow down and come back to myself when I feel like I’m juggling a million things, so hopefully, they can be helpful to you when you’re in the same boat.

TAKE QUIET TIME

I personally like to do this in the morning, but it’s really when it works best in your schedule. Take some time with no phone, no TV, no technology at all, and enjoy some quiet time. During this time you can journal, listen to a podcast (that isn’t work-related), go on a walk, read a book, or literally just sit in the quiet. Everyone is different so find what works best for you!

INCORPORATE MOVEMENT

Ever since I started making an effort to exercise daily it has made such a difference in my mood and helps reduce my stress levels. You’ll never regret getting those endorphins flowing! This doesn’t mean that you need to be doing some hard AF workout every single day–it can be something as simple as going on a 20-minute walk before you start work or doing a quick at-home pilates class on Youtube.

TALK TO MY PEOPLE

It’s so easy to get wrapped up in work, chores, and all of the things, that checking in with friends or family can drop low on the priority list. This has been something I’ve struggled with so recently, two of my best friends from New York and I started a group Facetime call where we make it a priority on our calendar to see each other and catch up (basically, we have our own little Sex & the City moment every week). Not only has this renewed our strength and our bond, but it has been such a stress reliever for me. I know I always feel more centered and more like myself after hanging out with my girls after a busy day! Make the effort to spend time with your friends and family (even if it’s virtually) and I bet it will make all of the difference.

CHECK-IN WITH MYSELF

When life gets busy and I’m feeling the pressure, I always like to do a check-in with myself. Are there things on my plate that I can remove? Are there things that are no longer serving me that are causing me stress? Are there any unhealthy habits that I need to break? Asking myself these kinds of crucial questions is always helpful and a simple way I come back to myself.

Let me know if these types of topics are helpful for you guys! I’d also love to hear how you center yourself and de-stress, so drop your tips in the comments below.