Life is Overwhelming

Racing thoughts. Fatigue. Trouble focusing. Lack of motivation. Sound familiar? We’re flooded with powerful images, strong opinions, painful stories, finger-pointing and appeals for action –on top of personal struggles & responsibilities to family, friends, work, health and basic daily functioning. You may feel pulled in multiple directions at once and it is draining.

 

It’s not even all negative. There are stories of inspiration, new conversations, innovation, increased awareness and encouraged resilience. People are showing perseverance and the ability to rise above difficult circumstances. People are finding their voices. And yet… there is so much competing for your attention, and it may feel bigger than anything you’ve faced in the past.

 

How do you make sense of it all? Being overwhelmed looks and feels different for everyone. If left unchecked, it can lead to physical health problems, emotional instability and the inability to perform necessary functions.

 

SIGNS TO PAY ATTENTION TO

  • You keep adding to your “to do” list, but do not accomplish much

  • You feel burned out and tired, both physically & emotionally

  • You lack focus, motivation and direction

  • You find it difficult to be hopeful

  • You are more irritable and lash out easily

  • Your thinking becomes all or nothing, no in-betweens

  • You have trouble sorting out your own values or priorities from those of others

  • If you relate to any of these signs, it’s time to make a few changes.

 

FIND BALANCE – ADDRESS THE OVERWHELM

  • Recognize and tend to your emotions. It’s okay to feel a range of them. Acknowledge the challenges in your life and the realities surrounding you.

  • Accept that you have limited time, energy & money, and you can only do what you can do.

  • Check in with yourself regularly. What are you been eating/drinking? How are you sleeping? When did you last connect with someone you care about? Have you made time for yourself?

  • Ask yourself what you NEED right now, in this moment. Not a “should”. Keep it small. Maybe a deep breath, some water, a few minutes of fresh air.

  • Prioritize. Rank your “to-do’s” based on urgency and how much control you have. Tune into what feels doable today and what calls to you. Be careful you don’t neglect work that pays the bills.

  • Take breaks from social media & news – don’t let it control your time. If you’re getting constant notifications on your phone, it’s tough to pay attention to your own needs.

  • Value down time. You do not need to be doing & going 24/7. It’s okay to make time to eat, rest, exercise, doing something you enjoy, decompress and regenerate!

  • Reach out for help, support or guidance. You are not alone. Talk to someone who can help you refuel and find balance. Take a break from those who are toxic or draining.

Heather Kassman