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How many times during the day do you feel like you’re losing it? Losing your mind- I mean. Daily life includes stress and that’s just the way it is. The only thing that can change is the way you react to it, and you might not know it, but you do have control over that! Here are some things you can do to save your sanity:

1. Set boundaries:

There are people that will take advantage of you, and people who will smother you- if you let them! Know what you can handle and when you have to say things, like: “no,” “not now,” or “give me a few minutes.”

2. Take some time for yourself:

Set aside at least 30 minutes for yourself every day. This is not selfish! It’s crucial for your survival and performance.

3. Eat well:

Poor nutrition can definitely affect your mood, so make sure you eat every few hours, and eat foods that will help your body and brain function at their best. Of course, there will be times when it feels like the only thing that will save you is a bowl of ice cream, and when that happens- just go for it! There’s a lot to be said for indulgent comfort food at times.

4. Sleep:

Same goes for being sleep deprived- it can make you cranky, angry, sad, and unproductive, so make sure to get at least 7 hours every night. And sometimes when you feel like you just can’t take any more, a nap may be just the thing.

5. Exercise:

Regular exercise helps keep your mood hormones in check, so include some movement every day. If you feel stressed, angry, or panicky, a walk or workout can help calm you down.

6. Connect with friends:

People are social beings, and spending time with others is important. Even introverts need some social time in smaller doses and in smaller groups.

7. Ask for help:

When you feel overwhelmed, it’s important to know that you can always ask for help! It doesn’t make you a failure, and it doesn’t make you weak- it makes you smart!

8. Meal plan and prep:

Being prepared is a very important way to stay sane. Plan your meals at the beginning of the week and prep as much as you can in advance.

9. Acceptance:

Accept that you can’t control everything, and that you can’t do everything, either. Accept that this is okay and don’t feel guilty.

10. Gratitude:

Feeling grateful is a powerful reality check that helps keep your sanity in check. Recognizing the good things in our lives helps us focus and feel less overwhelmed.

11. Breathe:

When you feel like things are starting to get a little crazy, stop and take some deep breaths. It has a calming affect on the brain- and it forces you to take a little break where you can pull yourself together.

12. Stay organized:

Being organized is a great way to stay sane! You’ll always know what has to be done and you’ll find yourself scrambling less.

13. Get rid of clutter:

When your surroundings look chaotic, you’ll feel more chaotic, so keep clutter to a minimum. Being clutter-free also means things are where they belong, which means you won’t have to make yourself nuts trying to find your keys or socks- or anything else!

What do you do to stay sane? Share with us on Facebook and Twitter!