5 Strategies to Break Free from Overwhelm
Sometimes life gets chaotic. And it isn’t possible to get everything done that you really need and want to get done. And when this happens, something is going to have to give.
And the million-dollar question is: Will it be work, the kids, my health, or perhaps my last shred of sanity that pays the price? Yikes.
Feeling like you're drowning in tasks is as common as that ugly holiday sweater everyone pretends to love. But stick with me, because I’m sharing some down-to-earth strategies, a worksheet, and an audio track to help you navigate this hot mess.
1. Communication is Queen:
Shoot a message to your partner or family, let them know you're drowning, and you need a lifeline. If you can, be specific about what would be helpful. Like “Mom, can you take the kids overnight?” or “Babe, can you grab the groceries this week?”
2. Work-Life Balance:
I’m not always a fan of the push to have work-life balance. Because I don’t usually think it’s realistic (unless this is an ongoing pattern for you). So here is your permission to reframe it. Consider the idea that this may just be a season of your life. It’s temporary and something you can get through with a little help from your loved ones.
3. Do a Brain Dump:
Dump everything on a list. Your thoughts, your worries, your seemingly impossible tasks. I’ve got a free worksheet for you to use in combination with tip #4.
4. Categorize and Conquer (or not):
Label each task: keep, eliminate, modify, or delegate it to someone else. I made a worksheet to help you accomplish this (you can get access below). Maybe you are supposed to bring a dish to a party, and everyone loves your grown-up four cheese macaroni and cheese. But life threw you a curve ball and something has to give. Consider buying something pre-made-—Costco's deli section has your back every time. Nobody will care, I promise.
5. Own Your Choices:
If a task sparks joy (thanks, Marie Kondo), own it, even if it adds to the circus. Then it becomes less about overwhelm and turns it into intentional chaos. You got this. For example, I love it when my kids cook with me. Does it make more of a mess? Sure does. But I love creating those memories with them and letting them be a part of the cooking process, so I accept that this may be less efficient (and messy!) than usual.
I've got a free worksheet to make this chaotic season a bit more bearable. Download the Undo List Worksheet to sort your life out (plus my 5-Minute Guided Meditation Audio Track for those "I need a break" moments).
Grab the Undo List Worksheet Here
Remember, this is just a season. And guess what? You're not alone in this glorious mess.