Last Updated on June 28, 2026 by Fadila
We all deal with stress; sometimes it feels like it’s just part of daily life. But when stress sticks around for too long, it can start to affect your mood, energy, and even your health. Taking simple, practical steps to manage stress can make a big difference. Here are eight tips that have helped me (and many others) stay calm when life gets overwhelming.
I need to do the laundry, check emails, cook and return phone calls, run some errands, and apply for jobs while thinking about what to do tomorrow – this is me thinking about all the things I need to do – trying to do so many things at the same time could be draining.
“Let me kill two birds with one stone” – these are the words I say to myself. It gets the job done most of the time, but leaves me exhausted.
How to keep your mind calm in every situation
We sometimes find ourselves upset and unhappy (these feelings are valid). We all have a right to feel this way. It all boils down to how we can change that feeling and remain calm in any situation we find ourselves in.
To stay calm means being peaceful, quiet, and without worry. Yves Behar opined, “Sometimes you can find peace of mind by transferring yourself to different situations.
How to stay calm when stressed (8 Tips)
1. Stay true to yourself
One way to deal with stress is to admit it, which will help you find ways to reduce it.
2. Be Mindful
I know we’ve got that ability to do more than one thing at a time, but all it does is put us in a state of worry – feeling anxious about undone tasks.
Merriam-Webster defines mindfulness as “the practice of maintaining a nonjudgmental state of heightened or complete awareness of one’s thoughts, emotions, or experiences on a moment-to-moment basis.” Mindfulness means being aware of and in control of your experience. You are in the moment, acting, not reacting to life.
In 2019, I learned about mindfulness at a workshop organised at my workplace. Being in the moment – taking it a step at a time, for example, while eating, it should only be about the food, no distractions (phone), concentrate on doing one thing.
3. Take a Deep Breath
Simple breathing exercises can relieve stress. You can do it in your bed, standing or sitting.
4. Munch it
Proper nutrition is important for managing stress. Being both hungry and stressed can worsen your mood. Having something to eat is very important. You don’t want to be stressed and hungry at the same time (trust me, it’s not a good combination). Go for healthy foods such as dark chocolate, nuts, and fruit because they’ll put you in a better mood, according to Healthline. Don’t forget to stay hydrated (drink water).
5. Good sleep
Sleep is essential as it helps us relax and reduce stress. So, you might want to take a warm shower first, make your bed and have a good night’s sleep. Sometimes, a power nap could be all you need to get recharged.
6. Caffeine in moderation
The effect of caffeine in the body happens almost immediately. It affects the body in various ways, including sleep. If you know you can’t do without a cup of coffee, you may want to try decaffeinated coffee or limit your intake, as caffeine in moderation can give you that boost that you require. Thank you.
7. Phone family/friend/mentor
Connecting with your support system can be helpful during stressful times. Speaking with a friend, family member, or mentor may improve your mood and provide emotional relief. We all have that support system, so why not use it at a time like this? Pick up that phone – Just hearing someone’s voice could lighten your mood and help relieve the stress.
8. Shake it off
Dance, as it will help reduce stress; watch movies; read a book; try out a new recipe; or listen to an audiobook/podcast, whichever you like.
Elevate your mood with good music.
One good thing about music, when it hits you, you feel no pain – Bob Marley
Music does a lot of things for a lot of people. It’s transporting, for sure. It can take you right back, years back, to the very moment certain things happened in your life. It’s uplifting, encouraging, and strengthening – Aretha Franklin
On a lighter note
Remember, stress is a normal part of life, and you are not alone. Maintaining a positive outlook and finding humour in challenging situations can help bring comfort and ease. What are your go-to strategies for managing stress? I’d love to hear your experiences or any tips you have about staying calm when life gets tough.
Next Stop
Check out my post on how to stay motivated when working from home, 15 Fun facts about me, and 5 best drugstore face masks.
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Hi Adenike, you know that feeling, right 🙂