PMP:014 Five Tips for Maintaining Sanity During Stressful Times

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by your to-do’s?
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Sometimes you hit seasons where your work can be more stressful than at others. As I’ve hit these seasons at different points in my leadership, I’ve learned a few ways to stay focused even when it feels impossible to do so. Listen in to learn how you can do the same. Here’s a link to the companion blog post for this audio version.

Here are the show-notes for this week’s episode:


5 Tips for Maintaining Sanity
1. Maintain a sensible schedule and healthy habits where you can (and be forgiving where you can’t).
It seems counterintuitive to focus on exercise, good nutrition, and rest during your most stressful times, but these habits actually provide more strength and energy for tough seasons. Be forgiving where you can’t fit in all the time you’d like on these priorities.
2. Accept that you are not always completely in control.
As much as we like to think we’re the masters of our destiny, we’re not ultimately in control of the universe. It’s really helpful when you accept this, and trust God for the strength to endure stressful times and accept that some things may get left undone. Focus on the most important priorities during these times.
3. Keep a good to-do list.
This seems like a no-brainer, but writing things down helps you see in print what needs to be done, and it helps you prioritize what should be done first, second, third, etc.
4. Let others know that you need help.
You are no Superman, so tuck in your cape and ask for help. Leaders who fail to delegate are typically miserable leaders.
5. Keep your workload in perspective.
Any major job can be accomplished one step at a time, one shovelful at a time, or one rake at a time.

Conclusion

Not all stress is bad stress. Follow these tips, and don’t forget to celebrate when you do accomplish your goals.

Now It’s Your Turn

What are some other ways you’ve found to maintain sanity during stressful times? Share with the rest of us!

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William D. Parker
William D. Parker
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