As the reality of the impact of COVID sets in, and global turmoil is seemingly increasing, it’s not surprising that many of us feel overwhelmed.
But what actually is overwhelm? It’s that sense, in just that moment, that you can’t handle it all. And there is a lot coming at us; we absorb as much information in a day as our ancestors in the fifteenth century did in a lifetime!*
So how do you deal with all the obligations on your plate? Here are 10 Tips on How to Overcome Overwhelm:
#1: Say No
I know for a lot of us, that’s easy to say, not as easy to do. Determine what you want and only say yes to the things you really want to take on and are aligned to your goals.
#2: Set Boundaries
If you don’t set the boundaries to protect your resources, whether that be your time, your money, your family; who else will?
#3: Stay Organised
When everything feels like it’s getting too hard it sometimes feels easier to let go and not worry about organisation and let chaos ensue. However, external chaos can too quickly turn into internal chaos and vice versa. I used to have a boss who would throw everything out that you left on your desk if you didn’t clean it up before you left for the day. At the time I thought he was a bit of a nut, but it did teach me, every morning starting from a “clean desk” that no matter what happened the day before I could always start fresh.
#4: Plan Daily
Every day is a new day. Start fresh and begin the day knowing what the day is about for you, decide how you want to show up, and how you want to feel. Start the day from a place of security and certainty that you can deal with overwhelm because you decide how you feel.
#5: Minimise Distraction
When we allow ourselves to be pulled in multiple directions by others, our sense of control over how we want to utilise our time is diminished. Be sure to block the time you need to focus on the things you want to achieve and minimise distraction.
#6: Manage Energy
There’s been enough research now to show that multi-tasking isn’t efficient (yikes!) In fact, it actually depletes us energetically. The most efficient way to use our brain is to focus it in short bursts on one task/activity then transition well to the next. For example, spend 25 mins focused on a task then take a short break (breath, meditate, get some water, go for a walk i.e. do something not work-related) then choose the next task or go back to the same one for another 25 mins. The brain needs silence in between tasks to bring full focus and creativity. By transitioning well between tasks you will better manage your energy throughout the day.
#7: Take Breaks
As well as mini-breaks between tasks, remember to take longer breaks every hour; as well as weekly, monthly, quarterly. Without good recharge routines, we can’t expect that the mind, body and soul will continue without fail.
#8: Factor-in Catchup
Be sure to allocate space for catchup. At the end of every day try to find some time to take stock of the day, where you’re at and tie up any loose ends.
#9: Be Mindful
Know that overwhelm, uncertainty, unforeseen chaos are going to happen and develop the ability to handle it. Choose your response rather than entertaining a freak out.
#10: Acknowledge Overwhelm
And when it happens, cause it will, acknowledge the emotion of overwhelm and choose the emotion of calm.
You can master your mind, you can master your attitude. No one else can do it for you. You can be happy, you generate it by choosing your energy and emotions.
I have had (and still do have) so many people supporting me on my journey of self-development, I’d love to help you on yours. Whenever you’re ready, here are a few ways I can support you:
5 Steps to Ignite Your SPARK – download my ebook and find out how you can re-ignite your life, just like I did!
Take the High Performance Quiz – to understand if you’re ready to go to the next level and live a life full of engagement, joy and confidence 🙂
Book a Chat – so we can breakthrough what you’re currently challenged with or take the next action towards living the life of your dreams…
* Source: https://www.cnnmoney.ch/news/become-more-resilient/
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