Have you experienced being overwhelmed or stressed out with all the work that needs to be done? Do you sometimes have irritable feelings because of the overwhelm?
Our thoughts can cloud us with anxiousness and, our emotions can create intense pressure throughout the day.
There are hours, days, and even weeks when I’ve felt stressed out and overwhelmed, and then it’s been compounded by more tasks and requests.
Here is what I’ve learned over the years that have helped me.
YOU cannot do it all, and when your plate is full, you are certainly not the best version of yourself.
Hitting rock bottom with your physical and mental health, giving up important relationships, and allowing stress to consume you is defeating.
Here are several things you can do that might help:
1. Clear Your Plate – If your “plate” was clear, what would go back on the plate? Next, determine what’s on the plate and why? For example, if your schedule was clear, what would you do? Once that is figured out and you understand your priorities and values, you will know what should be on the plate.
2. No is a Complete Sentence – Stop saying yes; learn to say no, especially when you don’t want something, or there’s no space on your plate. Saying yes all the time puts you in a state of “being miserable.” Create boundaries and eliminate “the yes”; otherwise, you will be taken advantage of. We know it’s challenging to say no. However, the alternative is doing a “half-hearted” job and becoming stressed to the max. It will feel like you are on a “hamster wheel,” trying to be all things to everyone, while stuck in a vicious cycle of frustration and possible failure.
3. Core Focus – Narrow your focus to 3 core tasks each day. Multitasking will make you crazy and can be less productive. Most people can accomplish at least two or three things well every day. Determine what those tasks for the day will be and eliminate the rest. Stay vigilant on those priorities and, when something else comes your way, recognize your plate is full and honor your boundaries.
Try this and, you will notice a difference. Life isn’t that complicated; we are.
