At times life can feel like there’s too much to do and not enough time to get it all done. We feel overwhelmed by our circumstances. So what can you do to regroup when you’re overwhelmed? Let’s look at 4 things you can do to fight to overwhelm.
4 Ways to Fight Overwhelm:
- Know your priorities.
- Map out your day.
- Learn to say no.
- Know when to step away.
Know your priorities
Having a top three for each day is a tried and true way of narrowing down what actually needs to get done or what you want to get done each day.
Another option is to prioritize your to-dos by importance with the letters A, B, and C. Tasks with an A are the most important and/ore necessary tasks for the day. B tasks should be done but the world won’t end today if they don’t get completed. Tasks labled C are tasks that would be nice if they happen, but not necessary or under time requirements. As days pass tasks may get moved around based on their current importance.
Map out your day
Schedule your day, either by the hour or by the time of day, morning, afternoon, evening.
Make time in your day to get those top priority tasks done. Write it down on your paper calender or add it to your digital calendar.
Include your daily to do’s in your schedule too, picking up kids, bath times, cooking dinner, exercise, going for a walk, watching your favorite show, etc.
Knowing where your time is going will help you see where you might be over commiting yourself and what areas of your wellness you might be overlooking.
Learn to say no
One of the greatest skills you can learn to protect your sanity is the difference between urgent and important. Most people will try to convince you that whatever they care about and want you to do is urgent and must be done now or first. However it’s more important to your sanity to know what is important (a priority) to you. Don’t let other people guilt you into spending your time or energy on something that isn’t important to you and your family. Learn how to say no.
Know when to step away
Take breaks from your work. Take care of yourself. Stop and breathe.
Step away from whatever task is overwhelming you if you can. Take some deep breaths or go for a walk. Get outside and get some fresh air. Even picking up the phone and calling a friend can help your mind destress for a moment.
If you need more time away then schedule it. A date night. A girls’ night. Maybe a weekend away.
Looking for more ideas when life gets stressful?
10 Ways to Reduce Stress Today
How to Handle Stressful Situations Well
If you are interested in learning more skills and tools for handling stress maybe you’d like to be a part of our next mind-body small group! Find out more here.
