Managing stress and increasing productivity

Hi everybody! Happy Thursday!

This week is my first “real” week in 2017 after getting back from my prolonged vacation. Classes started back up on Monday, and I’m finding myself surprisingly stressed by all that I have going on. Between the ever-shifting class schedule, applications, interviews, and jet-lag, I’m really feeling it. Especially in comparison with how spoiled I got the past few weeks.

I know I’m not the only one fighting the good fight here, so I thought I’d share my top 5 tactics for managing stress and increasing my productivity.

1. Make a list. Not a list like “finish homework” but a list like, “read pages 24-45” and “take blog photos.” The more specific you get the better. This helps you understand just how many steps it will take to complete a task (and let you track your progress by crossing off individual items – is my OCD showing?) as well as how long you should budget for said task. It’s a win-win.
2. Get a workout in. It doesn’t have to be long or impressive, just carve out a few minutes to work up a sweat. There are some awesome (and free!) circuit workouts online that don’t require any equipment. My favorite for bite-sized workouts (we’re talking 5-15 minutes here people – you can find the time) is Blogilates, and if you’re feeling more ambitious, Jillian Michaels can bust your butt into shape.
3. Phone a friend. There’s a lot to be said for gaining some perspective by carving out some quality time with someone you love. Often times an entire day can turn around with just a few words and some laughs. Pick up the phone, or if they’re near, meet up for a quick cup of coffee or a short walk. Not only will you feel better but you’ll also be energized to tackle that list you made in number 1.
4. Light a candle. I don’t know what it is, but light that match and some of the tension in my shoulders dissipates. My absolute favorite candles are from Element. Their Musk 2 and Wood 1 are my favorites. Not only are the scents amazing, but the wick is wood and it crackles as it burns, sounding just like a fireplace.
5. Clean it up. My high school boyfriend used to say “external chaos leads to internal chaos.” It didn’t resonate at the time, but these days I think he was on to something. It’s so therapeutic to be able to look around your space and feel organized, instead of boxed in by teetering piles of papers and inside-out clothing strewn across the floor. Maybe it’s a matter of feeling in control, I’m not sure, but it definitely helps. Tackle it a bit at a time if you must, but trust me – it will feel great.

So there you have it. My favorite ways of staying calm and focused. What are your best tips for managing your stress and increasing productivity? Thank you so much for stopping by – and good luck on your to-do list!

Outfit:

Top: Chelsea38 turtleneck, BP sweater (sold out, similar here)
Jacket: Cole Haan
Bottoms: Sinclair
Shoes: Steve Madden (other sizes and colors here)
Accessories: BP brand hat (sadly sold out, similar here), Ralph Lauren sunglasses

Photography: Kate Comee

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