You practice mindfulness and enjoy an occasional massage, yet stress still lingers.

As the holiday season approaches, the pressure can intensify.

Living under constant strain can lead to serious health issues—chronic pain, fertility troubles, heart problems, and Type 2 diabetes, just to name a few.

One major source of stress for millennials stems from financial concerns—no surprise there.

Per the 2018 Better Money Habits Millennial Report, 25% regularly fret about their finances.

“The report indicates that 35% of millennials view insufficient savings as their primary financial anxiety, followed by career worries at 24%, inadequate retirement planning at 21%, and the inability to buy a home at 20%,” shares a millennial adviser from the Better Money Habits team.

Take a deep breath.

“Stress can be overwhelming,” the adviser notes. “However, it’s crucial for millennials to identify their stressors and understand that they have time to take steps to alleviate this tension.”

What steps can you take? Plenty, and they’re easier than you might think. Here are four strategies to help lessen your financial stress.

CREATE A BUDGET

Overspending is a surefire way to increase anxiety. Financial worries can seep into various aspects of your life quickly. Start by drafting a budget.

We understand that just thinking about budgeting can be daunting, but the payoff is worth it: a budget empowers you to know your spending limits.

Having a clear picture of your income and expenses helps you regain control over your finances, paving the way for a more relaxed lifestyle.

FOCUS ON SAVINGS

The Better Money Habits report highlights that lack of savings is the top financial stressor for millennials.

We get it—not everyone can stash away 20% or even 10% of their earnings. Start small! Commit to saving a little each day, week, or month. Integrate it into your budget to make saving a habit.

TRUST YOUR FINANCIAL SKILLS

Many millennials fall prey to stereotypes about poor budgeting. However, the report shows that millennials often manage money just as well, if not better, than other generations.

You might feel anxious about your financial skills, but you could be doing better than you think. While it’s wise to seek improvement, you may already be managing your finances quite effectively.

DON'T OVERWORK YOURSELF

Pairing financial stress with overwork can lead to burnout. According to the report, career pressures are a significant contributor to millennial money stress.

Taking regular breaks from work is essential for minimizing tension. Engaging in short breaks after focused work periods can enhance productivity and maintain your calm.

Meet a friend for coffee or take a stroll around your neighborhood when feeling overwhelmed. It may seem like a waste of time, but it actually makes your work hours more productive.