Who's calling?
You don't have to be a slave to the phone -- that's what voice messaging and answering machines were meant to avoid. Remember that most phone calls are not emergencies.
Use the power of "no."
Just say "no" to things you don't want to do, for which you don't have time, and in which you aren't interested. Saying "yes" to every request eats away at your time and energy, but it's a hard habit to break. When all else fails, rely on the standard "let me get back to you on that." And don't feel guilty.
Divide & conquer.
Share the load -- your friends, your partner or your kids can help out when you need them. Even small children can help with household tasks, such as emptying wastebaskets and picking up after themselves. Decide as a family what needs to be done and make everyone a part of making it happen. Choose your battles. Is it really a crisis if the bookshelves don't get dusted this week?
Do one thing at a time.
Too much multitasking can cause panic. Think about the project or task you're working on and get it finished first. When you prioritize, you can accomplish your goals a step at a time, and you'll feel calmer and more organized.
Count your blessings.
Every day, think of three things for which you are grateful. Everyone has blessings in her life, and taking a few minutes to recognize them is always uplifting. Don't forget to say "thank you" when someone does you a favor, or to someone you admire and love. The faces that come to mind when you're counting your blessings deserve to hear that you are grateful to have them as part of your life.
Play.
One-on-one time playing and relaxing with family and friends shows them how important they really are to you. Leisure time is reaffirming for relationships when you spend it together.
Learn to accept.
There are things you can change, and things that you can't. Finding peace and tranquility means knowing the difference and accepting it.
