There’s a saying: If you can’t win something, break it down and try again! Splitting a big challenge into smaller, manageable parts makes it far less intimidating. We often associate this strategy with war or politics, but in reality, it’s a powerful tool for everyday life.

Picture yourself facing a task so massive that it feels impossible. Instead of letting it paralyze you, break it down. Tackle one small piece at a time, follow a timeline, and save the big picture for later—when most of the work is already done. You might be surprised to realize that what once seemed impossible is now within your reach.

This strategy is especially useful for those who struggle with anxiety. Many people avoid large tasks simply because thinking about them as a whole is overwhelming. But when a daunting project is broken into steps—whether by you or your manager—it suddenly becomes more approachable, even enjoyable.

Breaking things down isn’t just helpful for work and productivity—it can even aid relaxation. Not just by deconstructing stressors, but by embracing things that are too vast to focus on individually. Think about the calming effect of rainfall, rustling leaves, ocean waves, or a sky full of stars. You don’t fixate on a single raindrop or wave; instead, you absorb the experience as a whole, allowing your mind to drift into relaxation.

On the other hand, being forced to focus on too many things at once—like monitoring every passenger leaving a ship—can be incredibly stressful. The secret to true relaxation lies in knowing when to let go and surrender to the natural rhythm of life. If letting go feels difficult, it may be time to examine your mindset and adjust how you approach stress.

Sometimes, success and peace both come down to the same thing: learning when to take control and when to surrender.