How to Stay Calm When Life Feels Like a Dumpster Fire

Have you ever had a day, week, or month where your to-do list felt like it was multiplying faster than you could check things off? That has been my reality these past few weeks.

We’ve been in the middle of moving apartments—which, if you’ve moved before, you know comes with a parade of boxes, tape dispensers, and the never-ending “where did I put that?” moments. We’re finally in the new place, but let’s just say it has been anything but a cakewalk. Add to that my husband’s intense schedule during some of the toughest rotations of his new residency program, and our life has felt a little like that meme where the dog sits in a room engulfed in flames saying, “It’s fine.”

And yet… I’ve been surprisingly calm, cool, and collected through it all. No, it’s not because I’ve mastered some magical productivity formula or suddenly turned into a zen master. The truth? I’ve been practicing some intentional, everyday habits that have kept me grounded—even in the middle of the chaos.

1. Listening to My Mind and Body

This has been my number-one priority. If I need to rest, I rest. If I have the energy and mental clarity to tackle a task, I do. It sounds simple, but it’s easy to override those signals when you’re used to powering through. Learning to notice—and honor—those needs has made all the difference.

2. Prioritizing What Truly Matters

Even when my schedule feels maxed out, I still make time for the non-negotiables: meal prep, exercise, rest, and quality time with friends and my husband. These aren’t luxuries—they’re the anchors that keep me steady. Without them, everything else starts to feel heavier and harder.

3. Celebrating Small Wins

When life is busy, it’s tempting to focus on how much is left undone. But I’ve been intentionally celebrating progress, whether it’s unpacking a few more boxes, finishing a project, or carving out an hour to relax. These small victories keep my motivation up and my perspective balanced.

4. Releasing the “All or Nothing” Mentality

I’ve always been the type to push myself harder than anyone else would. That drive has helped me achieve a lot professionally, but it’s also led me to neglect my own needs. These past few weeks have been a reminder that doing something—even if it’s not perfect—is better than doing nothing because I can’t do it “all.”

If you’ve ever found yourself so caught up in busyness that you forget to take care of yourself, you’re not alone. The truth is, life’s chaotic seasons are inevitable. But how we move through them is a choice. By listening to our bodies, making space for what matters, and celebrating progress instead of perfection, we can stay grounded—even when everything around us feels like it’s on fire.

So the next time life turns up the heat, remember: you can keep your cool, one intentional step at a time.

Where to find Faith over the next few months (hopefully I will see you at some of them, please read through all and take a look):

1. This Thursday, August 14th, from 6:30-8PM in Dublin, OH I will be the featured speaker for The Beauty Boost Biz quarterly Columbus meetup. I will be speaking on Powerful Partnerships and Profitable Offerings. There will also be free headshots! Find out more and snag your tickets here!

2. The last week of August there will be two free masterclasses we will be hosting on getting grant ready! It will be a time filled with learning, engagement, and anyone who registers will also get access to the recording even if they cannot attend live.

3. September 5th from 9-11 AM at Cohatch Polaris, I will be co-presenting alongside Chelsea Elliott of Somocom Lab. We are presenting on the 8 domains of wellness and ways to integrate wellness into your personal and professional life. Free breakfast will be included! Find out more and register here!

4. I AM CO-HOSTING A CONFERENCE! Tickets are live for the Columbus “Tapping Into Your Higher Purpose” Conference on October 30th in Columbus OH. Tickets are 10% off for the month of August, snag them while they’re on special! Check out our list of vendors and speakers. I promise it will be worth your time!

Which event or two will I see you at? 🙂