Here’s the latest blog post I wrote for Lotus Leaf Style! 🙂

When deadlines and due dates are prominent in your work schedule, you rarely have time for yourself. The thrill of a busy office can keep you on your toes, but let’s take a moment to look at the state of your chipped nails and how the only new bags you’re carrying, are the ones under your eyes. #HotMess

Don’t worry, we’ve all been there. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed or high levels of anxiety when it comes to deadlines or stressing whether you’re even doing a good job. You have high expectations of yourself and your work, but if you want to be more productive, you need to be selfish, take yourself away for a moment and concentrate on you!

Here are a few tips that can help you de-stress in times in need:

1) Learn to say “NO!”

As I previously mentioned, being selfish can be one of the best things you can do for yourself. Whether your neighbour is asking to help paint their garage this weekend or your demanding boyfriend/girlfriend wants you to go out of your way to see them, if you genuinely don’t want to – DON’T! When overwhelmed, adding MORE tasks to your list should be avoided. You need time for yourself so, lighten the burden when necessary.

2) Get some Zzz’s.

SLEEP IS CRUCIAL FOR PRODUCTIVITY! For me, once it hits midnight, I power down and force myself to close my computer, turn my cell phone off and go to bed. A few extra hours of work when you’re exhausted could lead to misspelt emails or reading over important information. Seriously, go to bed.

3) Eat your daily dose of nutrition.

When you’re feeling overwhelmed, you crave copious amounts of ice cream and chips to make you feel better. To boost your mood the healthy way, nutritious meals will ultimately help you out! Plan your meals ahead of time so you don’t have to worry about ‘what to make for lunch/dinner.’ Food such as salmon has omega-3 which boosts brain function and avocado, which contain healthy fats to make you feel full for a longer period of time. Also, TAKE YOUR VITAMINS! Go for a multivitamin paired with your breakfast or just keep a bottle on your desk. If you lack vitamins, such as the B12 vitamin (found in animal products such as dairy and meat), you feel tired, stressed or weak. Talk to your doctor on what vitamins you need to take, it’s a BIG help when it comes to how you think, function and feel.

4) Keep in touch with your friends.

It’s important to stay in touch with people you love. In an office setting you act professional, greet everyone with a handshake and keep a constant smile on your face but sometimes – you only want to wear sweatpants, talk about The Real Housewives and laugh uncontrollably with your girlfriends over a bottle of wine and a fancy cheese platter. Making time for friends and family is crucial, it will prevent you from becoming a workaholic hermit.

5) Sometimes, it’s ok to procrastinate.

One quote I live by is from Ellen Degeneres, “procrastination is not a problem. It is the solution. It’s the universe’s way of saying stop, slow down, you move too fast.” I’m not saying this is an excuse to ALWAYS procrastinate, but every couple hours take a moment to get your mind off work. Go on Pinterest, look at pretty photos, inspirational quotes, shirtless pictures of Ryan Gosling, etc. Whatever you do, take a break once and awhile.

6) Reward yourself.

You’ve had a hard week, go get yourself some frozen yogurt with extra peanut butter pieces. You deserve it.

When it all comes down to it, you’re only human. Trust your instincts and continue to do your absolute best. If all else fails, remember…