Many of us face fast paced environment that usually consists of deadlines on fire and endless responsibilities daily. Add running errands and carving out time for family, friends and maybe a pet or two on the list, and the memes of crying characters from reality shows seem more relatable than ever.

Burn out is hard to handle, especially if it comes without a warning. Surely you did not schedule a breakdown in the already packed agenda for the day (let’s not go there). If everything feels like a handful, it is important to learn how not to fall into a well of self-pity and exhaustion. Some things are easily said than done, but give it a try or comment below with your personal tips!

Morning Routine

Basic hygiene habits excluded, it is essential to work out a morning routine that works for you and makes you feel grounded. Reaching out for your phone at the earliest may not be the best idea. Try meditating or writing your thoughts, ideas or to-do’s in the journal first. Even by simply listing things that you feel grateful for, before you get out of bed, can make a difference. Figure out a beverage that you are naturally excited about, whether it is a smoothie or herbal tea. Coffee also helps, but maybe you want to leave that for later. Surround yourself with beautiful details that warm your heart, light a candle and set your table either for breakfast or a work session at home. Mornings are tough, but can be peaceful if you wake up just a little bit earlier than needed to care for yourself.

Organization

When things are piling up, it is almost impossible to not feel swamped. Some are naturally on top of the schedule, but those are a rare bunch. What you should keep in mind is that organization is a skill and it can be learned. Start with a to-do list simultaneously drawing a time-table so not to overwhelm yourself. Make it as detailed as possible: even a call to a long distance friend needs to be on the itinerary. Make monthly or quarterly goals instead of betting on the New Years resolutions. Treat yourself to a good looking planner and make sure the dates are not printed, that way you can start over any time you fall off the track. Ticking things off the list is addictive and very satisfactory, so instinctively you will get into the swirl but this time with windows to breath (also scheduled).

Be Gentle With Yourself

There are only so many e-mails that you can read in a day. Do not punish yourself if you happen to take things slow now and then. Cherish small victories on the way instead of wailing over the long distance marathon. It is crucial not to compare yourself to others. Your story of success must be different, otherwise you would be bored to death. Embrace the obstacles – they teach us how to think out of the box, meanwhile do not forget to be kind, first to yourself and then to others.

Do Not Be Afraid To Say ‘No’

Work assignments will suffer if you have difficulties keeping up with all the duties you are charged with. Assess your potential and if the workload is immense for your abilities, address the issue with honesty. Some tasks might be out of your reach and you should not be scared to make it clear. Quality is usually celebrated over quantity.

Do not forget to insert a beautiful ‘No, thank you’ into your vocabulary more often on a daily basis. You do not have to be present at every event and outing whether it is work-related or personal. You also do not have to be the solution to everybody’s problem. Make sure your priorities are clear towards family, friends and work. Do not feel guilty if you simply do not feel like saying ‘Yes’ with no excuse up your sleeve.