Action Steps for When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
This blog post is more for me than you. This is the season I’m in, maybe the season I’m in a lot! I bet some of you can relate to me on this one. Let’s face it, life is overwhelming. The devil likes to keep us stressed, busy and overwhelmed. Logically I know this but when you’re in the thick of it, it’s just a lot. Below are some steps I like to take when I’m in the thick of it. I hope it blesses you and helps keep my mind on track in this season of overwhelm.
First things first PAUSE. Take a deep breath. You’ve gone through hard things before, you’ve been overwhelmed before, life has been hard before. You will get through this too. Put away distractions so you can shift your mindset and not dwell on the problem before you.
Step Two. Remind yourself of the blessings, the good things in your life. Thank God for them. Make a concrete list if you need to or just out loud thank God for them. Remind yourself of His goodness and how and when He has been there for you. He is for you, not against you. A bible verse I often repeat to myself is Romans 5: 3 - 5 “We exult in our tribulations, knowing that tribulation brings about perseverance; and perseverance, proven character; and proven character, hope; and hope DOES NOT disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out within our hearts through the Holy Spirit who was given to us.”
Next, surround yourself with whatever it is that helps you focus. For me, I need a tidy space and calming music. I straighten up things around me as much as I can and then I find a calming playlist, usually without words because the words distract me. Figure out what keeps you focused and do that.
My top two playlist on days when I have too much going on in my brain:
Jazz in the Background Playlist
Lastly, make an action list. When I’m overwhelmed what I really want to do is curl up in a ball on the couch and watch movies. But that doesn’t solve any problems. I have to be intentional and do something, I need to control what I can control and give God the rest. For me, this is making an action list for the day. Pick 3 - 5 things you want (and can) accomplish for the day. If I pick more than that, then guess what? I’m overwhelmed with my list! I break mine up into categories: Home, Work, Me. What are 2 - 3 things I want to accomplish in our home that day, 2 - 3 things I want to accomplish for work that day and 2 - 3 things I can to fill me up that day. This might even just be a walk, a shower and a nap - and that’s okay! Don’t neglect taking care of yourself, this helps you take care of others!