How to Cope When You Are Overwhelmed

It’s the season to be busy! Not only are there many things to get done, but there’s a lot of pressure and expectation around how emotions at this time of year as well. If you are struggling to get all the things done, here are three quick things to do to help you make it past feeling like you’re in over your head and send you into problem solving mode.

1. Write it all down.

A quick brain dump will put everything out in front of you in a logical order. In your head, it keeps circling around and jumping all over the place. Writing it all down lets you look at it, prioritize it, and make a plan to deal with it. Having it all on paper means you can cross it off as it gets done, too!

2.   Devise a plan. 

Now that it’s all out there in front of you, use your problem solving skills to set your priorities and figure out when and how to do all those things. Look at the hours, minutes, and energy you have and plan it out. 

3.    Do the hard things first.

Get those out of the way. The sense of accomplishment and the relief of having those things done will carry you through the rest of your list. It sounds counterintuitive but it really does work! Set some realistic goals when you allot that time—it’s better to end up with a little extra time than to feel like you’re running behind all day long. 

And a bonus tip: don’t let the perfect be the enemy of the good. Perfectionism is a drag. There are going to be things that fall by the wayside and that’s ok. Notice that you are able to deal with your priorities, and maybe those other things weren’t worth as much brain space as you were giving them. Or if you really did miss doing something, forgive yourself, learn from your mistake, and move on. Next time that can go higher on the list. You get to decide what your priorities are. 

Double bonus tip: ask for help! It’s a blessing to be able to help people, and it blesses the helper to have their help received. Instead of viewing yourself as someone’s burden when you ask for help, you might be their blessing!

Triple bonus tip: drink one glass of water, take two deep breaths, do three stretches, walk four times around your room or desk or office, and think of five things you are grateful for. This will take you less than five minutes and will really help you sit down and tackle your list.