You’re on a tight deadline for a major project. How can you keep your stress levels in check?

3 Communicate effectively

Communication is key when you’re working on a major project, especially if you’re collaborating with others. You need to communicate clearly and frequently with your team members, clients, stakeholders, and managers. Update them on your progress, challenges, expectations, and feedback. Ask for help or support when you need it, and offer it when you can. Communicate any changes or issues that may affect the project scope, quality, or deadline. Effective communication will help you avoid misunderstandings, conflicts, and stress.

4 Manage your emotions

Stress can trigger negative emotions, such as anxiety, frustration, anger, or fear. These emotions can cloud your judgment, impair your performance, and affect your relationships. That’s why you need to manage your emotions effectively when you’re under stress. Recognize and acknowledge your feelings, and express them in a constructive way. For example, you can vent to a trusted friend, write in a journal, or meditate. You can also use positive affirmations, gratitude, or humor to cope with your emotions. Managing your emotions will help you stay calm, confident, and optimistic.

5 Reward yourself

One of the best ways to motivate yourself and reduce stress is to reward yourself for your achievements. Celebrate every milestone, big or small, that you accomplish along the way. Treat yourself to something that makes you happy, such as a movie, a massage, a meal, or a hobby. You can also share your success with others who appreciate and support you. Rewarding yourself will help you acknowledge your efforts, boost your morale, and keep you going.

6 Seek professional help

Sometimes, stress can be too overwhelming or persistent to handle on your own. If you feel that stress is affecting your mental, physical, or emotional health, you may need to seek professional help. You can talk to a counselor, a therapist, a coach, or a doctor who can help you identify and address the root causes of your stress, and provide you with the appropriate treatment or guidance. Seeking professional help is not a sign of weakness, but a sign of strength and self-care.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?