Everyone’s life gets crazy. When you just can’t think straight anymore, use these four steps to staying sane.

Time. Take time to breathe. Every day, you should have ten to fifteen minutes of time to yourself to collect yourself and refresh. Their should be no ifs or buts about it—without it, you won’t stay sane at all. If Baby goes down for a nap, first take 10 minutes to yourself before rushing off to clean. If you’re a planner who schedules your day to the last half-hour, leave at least one half-hour slot open. This will give you more leeway in case you run behind, and allow you to feel less rushed and feel able to take those ten minutes you need.

Place. It is important to have a safe place you can run to that energizes you. If you have a garden, go walk around in it. If you really love your porch, sit on the swing. If incomplete projects bother you, try to create one space where everything is done—even if its just the wall-papered powder room downstairs. If messes bother you, clean one corner of a room and sit with your back to the rest of the mess.

Action. Once you are in a place that calms and energizes you (or at least doesn’t make you more anxious), do something you enjoy. Pick up your favorite book and read your favorite part, or do a little crocheting. If you still need calming, put in a good cd, close your eyes and listen to it. Lay on the floor and relax. Meditate or pray. Do whatever will relax you and release the tension that has built up over the day.

Be Thankful. Focus on what you have to be grateful for—a nice neighborhood, a good family, a job at all. Try pulling out old pictures and remembering good times you’ve have and be thankful for them. Remember the people in your life who support you.

These simple ways to distress might just be enough to help you keep your head in your crazy day.