Your unconventional work schedule, long hours, and efforts to get the best results for your clients can result in high amounts of stress. Sometimes, that stress enables you to work efficiently under pressure to meet a deadline or wrap up a client’s transaction, but unchecked stress leads to health issues, physically and mentally. Use these five ways to lessen your stress and improve your quality of life.

Practice Relaxation

Stress creates tension throughout your body and leads to aches and pains. Deep breathing, muscle relaxation, meditation, and similar techniques relieve that tension. Take time in the morning, at night, or even during short breaks throughout the day to help your body recover from frequent stress.

Prioritize Exercise

Daily physical fitness has many benefits and produces stress-relieving hormones that improve your mental health. Find a regular schedule for physical activities you enjoy, such as walking, running, biking, fitness classes, or a sport.

Make Time for Yourself

As a REALTOR®, you put your clients’ needs first, but you can’t be at your best for clients if you neglect your own wellbeing. Make time in your schedule to do activities you enjoy, such as reading, gardening, watching a show, or spending time with friends and family.

Get Good Sleep

You may burn the midnight oil or be an early morning riser, but a full night’s sleep remains important for your health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends adults receive at least seven hours of sleep daily. Lack of sleep and bad sleeping habits can lead to mental errors in your work and inefficiency.

Eat Well

Don’t use your hectic schedule as an excuse to allow bad eating habits. Even “fast food” and snacks come in healthier options. Healthy eating habits such as consuming unprocessed foods, vegetables, and fresh fruit can set a foundation for a healthy body and mind. Eating well has also been shown to stabilize your mood.