Feeling overwhelmed is not a good feeling. As a working mom with a business, I sometimes find myself feeling overwhelmed. The chaos that comes from working a full-time job, tending to family needs, my business, responding to emails, mailing orders, cooking, cleaning, and worries. I understand!
It took me having a breakdown for me to see that I was overwhelmed. Focused on everything and everyone else. I realized there were some changes that I needed to make in my life because I never wanted to have another breakdown.
How do you know when you are overwhelmed? Let me lay some examples on you. You have anxiety whenever you think about what needs to be done and how much time you have to get it done. Your heart and your mind are constantly racing. You can no longer focus on tasks.
Sound familiar? If you can relate to some of these examples, I have some tips to help you overcome feeling overwhelmed.
1. Let go of the past. Easier said than done, right? No one has control over what happened 10 years ago, last month, last week, or even yesterday. We can only focus on the future. Getting stuck in the past will only hold you back from living in the now. Each day is an opportunity to try again.
2. Just say No. You are allowed to say NO and shouldn't feel guilty when you say it! This can be a difficult one to swallow. Some of us are torn because of the innate desire to nurture everyone. You have to take charge of this behavior because this can make you feel weighed down. Before saying yes to something, ask yourself if it's something you can do with a full heart. To save yourself from becoming overwhelmed, you can no longer worry about how the other person will react to your response. Some may call it selfish but it's all about setting boundaries for yourself. Be honest with yourself about what you can handle and not what anyone else may expect from you.
3. Create a to-do list. Daily discipline and prioritization are very important to help you manage your days, weeks, etc. Try and plan out your days/weeks, everything from food shopping, meal planning, important phone calls, business stuff, household chores, the kid's activities, and appointments. Sometimes you might fall off track but try not to get discouraged when you don't complete everything on the list. Remember, tomorrow is a new day.
4. Commitment. Commit to doing at least one thing for yourself each day. Read that again! We all need time to ourselves. Pretty sure all the mothers understand what I'm talking about. You might be able to catch a moment when the kids are asleep or in school, the spouse is not home or sleeping, or that tiny moment you might be able to catch when you are sitting on the toilet, but you really need more than that. Whether it's a glass of wine (maybe a couple), a favorite television show, reading a book, taking a walk, or going to the gym, be dedicated to making time for yourself. You deserve it!
5. Make time for God. This is so important!! Find a time of day that offers you a clear mind and an opportunity to focus. Consider keeping a journal to help you connect with God. Write down your prayers, thoughts, and notes from the scriptures that you read. This is your time to really be honest with God and pour your heart out to Him. Thank Him and trust that He can handle whatever it is you are dealing with.
6. Affirmations. "I am" is a powerful statement. Negative thoughts create negative behaviors. Stay positive by creating some personal affirmations. This can help calm your nerves and increase confidence. "I am in charge of how I feel today, and I choose not to let anyone or anything get the best of me".
I hope these tips help you overcome feeling overwhelmed. If you have some more tips, please share them with me.
Be blessed!
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