When I Am Overwhelmed
What do I do when I hardly have time for breathing, let alone time for thinking?
I feel overwhelmed quite often; there are many things to do and many places to go. I need to catch up with friends, spend time with family, and fit in time for some exercise, among dozens of other things. Some things are vitally important or necessary.
I have heard and read from various sources that saying, “I am overwhelmed” or “I feel overwhelmed” worsens the emotional stress. Perhaps this is true, but I doubt I would be able to eliminate this thinking myself.
Recently, I have tried utilizing the following three techniques to prevent feeling overwhelmed:
Do the Next Three To-dos
I do not need to think about the seemingly hundred things that I need or want to do. Instead, I focus on the next three steps. In the morning, that might mean getting dressed, drinking a glass of water, and washing my face. Late at night, the next three steps might include brushing my teeth, flossing, and showering.
Once those three tasks are done, I pick three more and repeat the process. Before I know it, most of my tasks are completed, and I am less stressed.
Time the Task
For the dreaded or burdensome tasks, I set a timer and start working on the task for that amount of time. If I am particularly against the task, I will set the timer for five minutes or even for only one minute. When the timer beeps, I might change to a different task, take a short break and reset the time, or discover that I do not mind the task as much and can keep working.
For me, doing a task for a certain amount of time helps me get more things done. I know when I am working hard not by necessarily completing the task, but by how much quality time I spend on it.
Scratch It Out
Most of the time I keep a to-do list on my phone. It is easy to delete the tasks once completed and type out new ones that I need to remember. Yet periodically I enjoy writing out a list and crossing off the tasks when completed. The feeling of literally crossing out the writing makes me feel happy and accomplished.
Do not forget to take a deep breath when you feel overwhelmed. It is easy to brood in stress and worry. Due dates and deadlines come whether you worry or not. So, smile, and work on.