Managing the Overload: Tips for Stressful Days
by Sophia Archie, Staff Associate II
Posted on June 26, 2025
Deadlines. Documentation. Financials that just won’t balance. Emails piling up faster than you can read them. And just when you finish one task, here comes another deadline — on repeat.
Sound familiar?
I’m a wife and a mother of three, I work full-time, and I run a small business that keeps my weekends packed. Most days, by the time my head hits the pillow, I’m thinking, I probably forgot something.
Over time, I’ve learned a few things to help manage the madness. If you’re in the thick of it too, I hope these tips give you a little relief.
- Breathe.
Sounds simple, right? But when your stress hits a high, a deep breath can reset your focus. Take two minutes—stand up, stretch, and breathe. Don’t know how? No shame—YouTube or TikTok “breathing techniques.” Then get back to tackling that one stubborn number that refuses to reconcile.
- Take 15 Minutes to Prep Tomorrow’s Win.
At the end of your day, give yourself 10–15 minutes to clear your workspace, check your calendar, and prepare a quick to-do list for the next day. It makes the morning chaos a little less… chaotic.
- Turn Up the Music.
Classical. Metal. K-pop. Movie soundtracks. Whatever gets you in the zone. Music can shift your energy and lower stress. Headphones on = tunnel vision activated.
- Move Your Body.
You don’t need a gym membership. Try a 7-minute workout with no equipment (yes, it exists). Movement clears your mind and gives your body a reset. Even a walk outside helps.
- Talk It Out.
Seriously — talk. Vent. Ask for help. Whether it’s a coworker, a friend, or your partner, saying it out loud helps take the weight off. Don’t bottle it up.
- You’re Human.
We are not robots. You don’t have to be perfect — you just have to be honest and accurate. Give yourself some grace.
- Remember Why You’re Doing This.
When the stress hits hard, remind yourself who you’re doing this for. Whether it’s your family, your team, your clients, or your community – your work matters. Especially in government and non-profit spaces, you’re helping others fulfill their mission. And that’s huge.
So take a breath. You’ve got this!
