Work-based stress is something that we’re all too familiar with. Whether it stems from the (unnecessarily) long weekly meeting, your chatty cubicle neighbor, or your to-do list that never seems to end, at one point or another, we’ve all found ourselves with our jaws clenched, shoulders tight and exhausted beyond belief.

As someone who works from home, it’s very important to manage my work-related stress to avoid bringing unnecessary tension into my personal life. It’s all too easy for me to stay glued to my computer, working late into the evening, or skipping through lunch to power through one more report.

Here are a few little things you can do to help ease your stress (whether or not you work from home):

Plan Ahead

It sounds like a complete no-brainer but planning ahead can help you to let go of the stress of the unknown. Every Friday I take time to review my calendar for the next week, write out a list of the tasks that need to be addressed, and prioritize what absolutely has to get done and what’s ok to move to the bottom of the list. Now when I start my day on Monday, I already know what meetings I have, what I need prepared for them and when my deadlines are.

Schedule Some Down Time

No one does their best work when they are overworking and you’re only going to find yourself more stressed if you continue to push yourself when you know you need a break. Don’t be afraid to block off your lunch or an afternoon break into your calendar. If you already know you set aside the time for a break then you can schedule the rest of your day around it. Plus you get the chance step away and come back with a clear mind (and maybe a few new ideas).

End Your Day With Something to Destress

At the end of a particularly stressful day, I like to do something I know when help me let go of everything and have a clear head to start my “me time.” If you read my last post, you know I’m also a yoga instructor, so for me a yoga class or meditation is perfect. It’s the line I draw in the sand between work and personal time. I’m able to recharge and refresh and go into the evening with a better attitude. I know yoga isn’t for everyone, so maybe you decide to read a book, or go to the gym, or take your dog for a walk. Whatever your thing is, go for it! You’ll never be mad you did.