We're often told that life gets harder as an adult - that responsibilities pile up and stress increases. While there is some truth to that, I've found that with the right mindset, it doesn't have to be that way.

I was deeply worried and anxious about many things as a young adult. Small problems felt like major crises. But as I got older, I realized that stressing and worrying didn't actually solve or change anything. It just drained my energy and happiness. I started making a conscious effort to let some things roll off my back.

Of course, there are times when stress and worry are warranted, such as in truly dangerous or problematic situations. But most of the time, small daily frustrations or inconveniences aren't emergencies.

With practice, I learned to reframe my perspective and not sweat the small stuff. I've been in some real shit-storm situations, too - big problems that seemed impossible to fix. But even then, panicking and getting hysterical never helped. Taking a step back, breathing, and calmly addressing the issue got me through far better than meltdowns or desperation.

Now, I approach life with a much calmer, easygoing mindset.

Deadlines don't send me into a tailspin anymore. Inconveniences are inconveniences, not crises. And problems, as big as they sometimes seem, are manageable one step at a time if I keep my cool.