Looking back at my previous post — I was laid off late June 2024. Talk about work stress. Luckily, with severance, and the fact they hired me back six months later, I came out on top. However, this now hangs over my head at the end of each quarter. Are they going to do layoffs again? Work has slowed down a bit, so it's constantly on my mind. Of course, with that work stress (and day-to-day work activities, working with clients, etc.) and various life stress, it can pile up quickly. So this quick little post will be about how I deal with it from day to day.
First off, if you have it, Steam has been a lifesaver. I'm a gaymer at heart. I love playing simulation and co-op games. It allows me to step away from everything and kind of shut my brain off. Granted, there are stressful games (thanks Max!), but overall I find games that are relaxing with no pressure to them whatsoever. Right now, Leafy Corner has been amazing to me. You own a little plant shop; there are goals but no timer, and you can't really lose.
Second, I try meditating or at least listening to the Calm app. I'm lucky enough that my insurance paid for my subscription to the app. If you don't have that commodity like I do, there are free YouTube videos with just calming music — sit back and do something you really enjoy. Read, draw, or write! Do something that you find relaxing and fun.
And lastly, the other thing I turn to to shut my brain down is TikTok. It's a guilty pleasure. Again, like a previous post, I always scroll past the blah videos and watch feel-good videos: comedy, cat videos, or just all-around fun videos. It allows me to calm myself down after a stressful day, and you don't really have to think about it.
Stress in life and work is bound to happen, but the most important part is to not let it control you. Don't let the stress turn to frustration or anger — and definitely don't take it out on your friends, family, or loved ones. Granted, most of them will understand, especially if you apologize and explain yourself. Just find happy, relaxing moments throughout your day, and it should really help reduce your stress and ultimately extend life expectancy.
