9 tips for managing your emotions

1. Refrain from setting unrealistic expectations and chasing perfectionism.

To avoid feelings of distress when expectations are not met, one should create attainable goals that correspond with their capabilities and practice appreciating small accomplishments.

2. Lower your expectations for others.

Many people place their hopes on others and feel disappointed when other people fail to meet their standards. Every individual has their own perspective and demeanor; how could one possibly demand others to always fulfill their idealistic criteria?

3. Redirect the negative emotion by engaging in pleasurable activities. (Psychology term - sublimation)

Instead of reacting to unfortunate or aggravating events with anger and frustration, choose an activity that helps you release the unsettling energy, such as playing tennis or going to karaoke.

4. Focus on the big picture.

What is the long-term trajectory of your journey? Growth is not linear. It is important to let go of the insignificant mess-ups in life and remember to stay in tune with your true intentions.

5. Find escapes and indulge in avoidance occasionally.

Healthy coping mechanisms like exercise and journaling are great, but sometimes, what you truly need to feel better is to just binge-watch Netflix and have a pint of ice cream. Being able to allow yourself to have those moments without guilt is crucial to maintain a healthy balance.

6. Talk it out with a trusted companion.

Constantly suppressing those negative emotions is like pushing a pool ball down in water; the harder and longer you try to press it down, the more vigorously it will bounce back. A rant session with a friend is better than spiraling with those thoughts on your own.

7. Do something kind for another person.

Giving help to someone is a fulfilling way to distract yourself from overthinking while also building a better friendship.

8. Focus on completing one thing at a time.

Shuffling too many tasks at a time often leads to burnout. To lessen the stress on the mind and body, concentrating on one goal for a period of time is conducive to recalibrating your mindset and motivation.

9. Avoid meaningless comparisons.

We've all heard of it - comparison is the thief of joy. No two identical people in the world have the same circumstances and life setup for a "fair comparison." Measure with your own ruler.