Overwhelmed? Try These Simple Strategies for Peace of Mind
Life can sometimes feel like a whirlwind, leaving us overwhelmed and uncertain how to manage everything. If you’re feeling this way right now, and a secluded beach is calling your name, you’re not alone. But, don’t buy your plane tickets just yet.
There are three simple questions to ask yourself when feeling overwhelmed:
1) Where have your scales tipped towards imbalance?
Overwhelm, burnout, and overstress are all signs that your body, mind, and soul are out of balance. Whether you’re emotionally compromised, physically exhausted, or have piled way too much on your plate, you’re giving too much of yourself away. Your first task is to determine whether you’re physically, emotionally, or spiritually drained – or a combination of all three.
We operate like car batteries. When fully charged, we forge ahead at full speed; when not, we putter along and eventually stall. Once you pinpoint the source of your energy leak, you can figure out how to plug the hole.
2) Are you prioritizing someone else’s needs above your own?
If you don’t take care of your needs for safety, security, love, connection, adventure, enjoyment, or growth and put someone else’s needs above your own, you can also experience an energy drain. That doesn’t mean you shouldn’t give, but it means you’re giving more than you’re receiving, so it’s time to shift the scales in your favor again.
Abandoning your own needs is a surefire way to feel overwhelmed and unfulfilled, so make sure you’re being honest with yourself about what you need and then determine the best way to fulfill it.
3) Are you feeling your emotions?
Anxiety and overwhelm are often fueled by a buildup of multiple emotions that are unrecognized, unfelt, and unreleased. As these emotions build up without an outlet, it’s easy to feel buried in a mountain of emotional entanglement that feels impossible to move.
So, the first step is to tease out each emotional strand. Are you angry, hurt, confused, shocked, or afraid? Are you intimidated by a daunting task, sad, or grieving? Emotional overwhelm is real, and the only way to purge it is to feel. You do that by identifying the emotion and then feeling it for a few minutes until it passes. Feel it to heal it.
Here are a few additional simple strategies that may help when you feel overwhelmed:
- Take a Deep Breath: When emotions are running high, the first step is to pause. Take a few deep breaths in and out through your nose to ground yourself and allow your body and mind to reset. This can create a sense of calm and help you think more clearly.
- Break Tasks Into Smaller Steps: Large tasks can seem daunting. Break them down into smaller, more manageable pieces, and tackle them one at a time. It helps to write each task down and then check them off your list individually. Celebrate small wins as you go to help maintain momentum.
- Prioritize and Let Go: Not everything needs to be done right away. Prioritize the most urgent tasks and gently let go of less pressing ones for the time being. It’s okay to say “no” or ask for help when needed.
- Take Time for Self-Care: Remember that you’re important, too. Take time to do something that nurtures your well-being, whether it’s a walk in nature, a quiet moment with a book, or simply resting. Recharge your mind and body to face the challenges ahead with a clearer perspective.
- Reach Out for Support: If the pressure is too much, don’t hesitate to lean on others. A friend, family member, or colleague may provide valuable perspective and encouragement.
Remember, feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re failing – it’s a sign that your body and mind are signaling for a pause. Start by asking yourself those three simple questions to regain control, stay focused, and tackle what’s in front of you with a renewed sense of balance.
If you ever need to talk or share how you’re feeling, don’t hesitate to reach out. I’m here for you.
Take care and remember that you’ve got this!
