Grind mode is where many of us live and breathe. It’s where we’re the most creative and able to shut out the world to get things done with laser focus. It’s where the most successful thrive. We see you doing your thing! Just remember that going non-stop can also lead to burn out. It’s time to get some help and I’m here to share what works for many of my coaching clients and friends. I know, taking the time to look deep within ourselves isn’t always easy when we are constantly on the go. However, the rewards of working on yourself will take you even further in life once you launch some new habits.

In the Hip-Hop community, hustling hard in grind mode is definitely rewarded and celebrated. We have so many success stories of executives, entrepreneurs, producers, and artists who are praised for their insane work ethic. Take Cardi B, Russell Simmons, Diddy, Queen Latifah, and Jay-Z for example. What we don’t always hear is the other side of the what happens when you don’t slow down and find balance. From dehydration, illness, to mental health breakdowns; there are so many side effects of being on #teamnosleep all the time. You may jeopardize your decision making, your relationships, your patience and most of all, your health.

Okay...I’ll admit, I’ve been called a workaholic and can sometimes go non-stop, because when I’m in the zone doing what I love as an author and coach, time can slip away from me. So, even if I am on a business trip, I always find some downtime to give back to myself during that trip like getting a massage or going to meditate on the beach or in a park.

Finding ‘me-time’ and going within is priceless. The tools I use to own my power are meditation, journalling, yoga, CrossFit, and being in nature. Everyone knows that at some point you have to pump the breaks and replenish your soul. Here are some of the TOP SELF-HELP TIPS I recommend.

TOP 8 SELF-HELP TIPS

Move Your Body with Dance

Pump the music up and  dance like no one’s watching! Dancing can increase flexibility and reduce stiffness, minimize stress, reduce depression, increase your energy, and assist with weight loss. Dancing can also improve muscle tone and strength. You can also walk, run, go to the gym, or do yoga. Regular exercise overall will keep your body energized and it’s also a great support for your mental health. However, dancing is so much fun that you forget that it’s exercise.  

Try out meditation

It will help you connect with oneself on a deeper level. It can help you tap into your intuition, improve concentration, develop healthy sleep patterns, reduce stress, and control anxiety. It also helps reduce symptoms in people with stress-triggered medical conditions. There are many free guided meditations to help you get started, some are as short as five minutes. Try going to YouTube.com or check out some of my favorites.

Talk to a professional

And have someone hold you accountable- Get therapy, a coach, a mentor, or accountability partner. Many of us experience overwhelm when we don’t have an outlet. Having someone to talk to and share your journey with makes things so much easier.

Vibe out on some good Hip-Hop music

Music can  really take your happy place and help you forget your  worries. I especially love classic Hip-Hop, especially  since it’s gives me that feeling of nostalgia. Good memories  can always make you smile. A research study conducted by Cambridge University has found that rap songs can trigger the parts of the brain that controls our emotion, motor  function, nerve functions, language, and motivation. The  listeners of rap were found to cope with mental health issues  much better than others. 

Art Therapy

Graffiti, draw, paint, sketch and even using  an adult coloring book is an amazing way to center yourself and get into a meditative state. Creating art is not just a fun activity; it’s been proven to help people deal with strong emotions, increase self-awareness and self-worth. It also helps many people decrease stress and anxiety. “Scientific studies suggest that creative expression through art therapy can help people dealing with anxiety, depression, and even more serious diseases like cancer.”

Eat healthy

Fuel up with loads of greens, water, and whole  foods to create a healthy diet. When you make the transition you’ll improve your digestion, lower your risk of heart  disease, type 2 diabetes and some cancers. Most importantly, you’ll prolong your life.  

Journal daily

It’s a great outlet to connect with yourself and gain clarity. Take up the practice to journal daily even if it’s just a few paragraphs. Try to do it the same time each day, morning or evening is usually best. You can tap into your feelings, set the intention for your day, or just write about what you’re grateful for. You’ll see a major shift in your communications with others once you master your emotions within yourself.

Immerse yourself in a creative outlet

Music, write,  sing, rap, garden, dance, or take a class to learn something  new and expand your mind. Explore those things that make  you exude joy. Carve out moments in your week for these  little treats that nourish you soul. Most importantly, seek  careers and businesses that allow you to weave in your  talents, passions, and profits together as one.