How to Beat Stress with Self care

Real estate can be a very stressful career. Sure, it is rewarding when you know you’re helping people with the biggest financial decision of their life, but it can be overwhelming at times. Whether it is work-related stress, personal issues, or financial problems, everyone faces stress at some point in their life.  

Amidst the COVID 19 pandemic, most of us had a drastic realization about the importance of stress management. You must make it a priority to manage daily stress, so it doesn’t take its toll on your mental and physical health. Let’s discuss some ways to deal with stress. 

Get Moving

Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and anxiety. It can help improve your mood, increase your energy levels, and reduce tension in your muscles. Regular exercise also releases endorphins, which are natural chemicals that help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Some great exercises that can help you manage stress include yoga, swimming, jogging, and cycling. Even a 20-minute brisk walk can help clear your mind. Steve Jobs was known for his walks when he had a lot of decisions to make. So, when you’re stressed remember “one more thing…”and that is to go for a stroll! 

Practice Mindfulness

Mindfulness is a practice that involves paying attention to only the present moment. I always say, “Don’t look in the rearview.” There is nothing you can do about the past. Worrying about the future only causes anxiety. It can help you become more aware of your thoughts and feelings, and it can also help you develop a greater sense of calm and relaxation. There are many ways to practice mindfulness, including meditation, deep breathing exercises, and visualization techniques. The best book I have ever read (so good I have read it twice) is The Power of Now by Echart Tolle. If you’re new to this practice, this book is a great place to start. As a busy real estate agent who is pressed for time, combine taking a short walk while listening to an audio book about mindfulness. You’re giving stress and anxiety the one-two punch!

Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is crucial for our physical and mental health, and it can have a significant impact on our ability to manage stress. When we are sleep-deprived, we are more likely to feel anxious, irritable, and overwhelmed. It is recommended that adults get at least 7-9 hours of sleep per night. If you are having trouble sleeping, try to establish a regular sleep routine, avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, and create a comfortable sleep environment. Dr. Andrew Huberman, neuroscientist and professor at Stanford offers this Toolkit for Sleep worth checking out.   

Eat a Healthy Diet

Did all those showing appointments across town forced you to hit the Taco Bell drive-thru not once but twice this week? Garbage in, garbage out. You can’t expect to be on you’re a-game without proper nutrition. A healthy diet can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Make sure to eat a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, saturated fat, and processed foods. Eating a healthy diet can also help improve your energy levels and mood. On days when you are pressed for time, a superfood drink can save the day. You are what you eat!  

Practice Self-Care

Self-care is an essential part of managing stress. It involves taking time to do things that you enjoy, such as reading a book, taking a relaxing bath, or enjoying a cup of tea. It is important to prioritize self-care and make it a regular part of your routine. As a busy real estate agent, it is easy to take care of the needs of your family, friends, and clients before your own. Make sure you have a few minutes each day to focus on YOU.  

All of us face stress each day, but it is important to learn how to manage it effectively. Exercise regularly, practice mindfulness, get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, and prioritize self-care. By incorporating these strategies into your daily routine, you can reduce stress and improve your overall well-being. Your future clients and future self will thank you!