One Way Out of Overwhelm

I think I’ve finally hit on a reasonably workable strategy for minimizing the overwhelm that can sometimes be all-consuming.  Let’s face it; the world we live in is so fast-paced that often even those of us with the best intentions can get blindsided with the demands of simply everyday living.  Well here’s what I’ve discovered.

First, it’s time to realize that the to-do list really does NEVER end.  That’s right.  There will always be something more to do.  Realizing and accepting this really does help in alleviating some of the overwhelm, by helping you to set more realistic expectations of yourself and those around you.  For you perfectionists out there, this realization is a pivotal one.  I actually had one client make a monumental breakthrough this week, with this shift in thought alone.

Second, knowing that the t0-do list never ends, celebrate and acknowledge accomplishments as you go along.  If you wait until the to-do list is done — given that it never will be done — you’re never going to celebrate.  And anyway you slice it, that’s a bummer.  Celebration is important.

Third, begin your day by setting a specific goal that encompasses no more than 5 specific tasks or projects (depending on their size, of course).  The key here is to be really specific.  Saying that you want to get through your list doesn’t quite cut it.  Saying that you want to “finish your newsletter, call 5 prospects, and complete your invoicing” is a very specific, task-oriented goal that is measurable and achievable.  Which is a good thing.

Finally, breathe.  That’s right, take time to breathe as you move through your day.  Speaking from my own experience, it’s amazing what a single deep breath can do in terms of clearing your head and refocusing — 3 deep breaths and your whole body relaxes and tension releases.  Try it — you won’t regret it.  And if you need help, you can check out the breathing space on my website at www.stellarcc.com.  Three minutes inserted into your day and  you’ll be grounded, focused and ready for whatever’s next.

Bottom-line:  overwhelm does not have to be par for the course.  There is a way out.  Any one of the above strategies will help.  Used in combination, it’s a surefire way out of the overwhelm and into the lightness of being.  Trust me.