Have you noticed how the hectic pace of the holidays seems to have just maintained a bit of a crazy pace this year? Between work, family, and other commitments, there aren’t enough hours in the day. And, as I write this, dishes in the sink beacon.
In talking with a few friends, I’ve realized that I’m not alone; others are equally as overwhelmed with deep to-do lists, hopeful resolutions, and demands of day to day life.
So what do you do when life is coming at you from every direction – when “overwhelmed” is the best one word to describe your day?
10 things that can help when you’re overwhelmed:
1. “Dump” it.
Jot down the list you’ve been carrying around in your mind. Put it on paper or in an app – whatever works for you. Doing so will free up energy and your mental real estate so that you can think more clearly about the things demanding your attention.
2. Prioritize
Once you have the list, ask two questions for each item. Is it important? Is it urgent? In the event several are both important and urgent, ask which is more pressing and give that item the higher priority. Allow somethings to fall to the bottom of the list, or off it all together.
3. Say “no”
If new opportunities attempt to steal your focus and the new item is not a higher priority, respectfully say “no.” Saying no to opportunities that aren’t right saves your time and energy when the best ones come along.
4. Ask for help
Sometimes when you’re overwhelmed, you need assistance. I know it can be easier said than done but if someone close to you needed help, wouldn’t you want them to ask you? Step out of your comfort zone and ask a family member, friend, or colleague to share the load.
5. Get up ½ hour earlier
You’d be amazed how much productivity can occur in that quiet ½ hour before the rest of your family gets up. If you have a long list, consider giving yourself a ½ hour head start to your day.
6. Keep your attitude in check
When we’re overwhelmed, it’s easy to get irritated and negative over the smallest things. If you’re feeling weary, be mindful of your choice of tone and words. When we’re tired, we can come across more harsh and unintentionally wound people and add to our load.
7. Be a “poser”
In her TED talk Your Body Language May Shape Who You Are, Amy Cuddy share of the power of our posture. In her research, individuals who took two minutes to stand in a victorious or powerful stance we positively impacted by the internal strength it generated. Why not try it? Take two minute in the morning (yes, in the privacy of your home) and stand tall with your hands on your hips or raised victoriously. You might just be amazed by the encouragement it gives you.
8. Nurture a grateful spirit
A thankful heart is like a buoy to the spirit. When life is hectic, be sure to feed your hope by remembering the people, moments, and things that you are grateful for. Take time each day, even on the busiest of days to find at least three things that you are thankful for.
9. Establish a schedule
When you define specific times to get tasks accomplished, it can be easier to get them finished. Open ended efforts can easily consume more time than needed. When you find your schedule overwhelmed, try setting up a schedule allowing you to manage your time more effectively.
10. Pray
Last but certainly not least, pray. God can give you His peace that passes all understanding. He’ll give you strength to withstand the storm or He’ll calm the waves that threaten you. Make sure you build margin into your day so that you can have quiet time when you can let the world be still.
It’s your turn:
What about you, what do you do when you’re overwhelmed? Are there any new ideas here that you might try? Click to comment and let me know. I’d love to hear from you. And, if you like me know of several others who are struggling with weary too, why not share this post to encourage them. You may even offer to be the one they can call for help if they need a hand.
Have a great week!
Until next time, be blessed!
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