How to overcome overwhelm

Like a storm at sea, overwhelm is temporary.

Debra Plotkin

10/25/20231 min read

Want to know how to overcome OVERWHELM? Think of it this way…

Overwhelm is like a storm at sea. But remember, it’s only temporary.

It’s merely a temporary state of mind. So, keep your head up and hang on...plus check out today's Baby Step, too.

(#Keep your head up) image courtesy of Unsplash

BABY STEP

Overwhelm shows up when we feel we have too many choices. For me, it’s like the difference between shopping at Walmart versus Aldi.

Q: How will you ever decide?

A: Limit your options.

Overwhelm also makes an entrance when we feel we have too much to do. It’s like the show about hoarders.

Q: When your entire home is filled to the rim with excess stuff, where do you begin?

A: You start with one item at a time. One teeny, tiny Baby Step :)

When you decide to be proactive and take back control over the swirling storm of thoughts in your mind, then, just like an actual storm, overwhelm dissipates naturally.

One way to do that is to recognize when it’s happening and give yourself a moment to regroup. Take a few slow, calming breaths. Remind yourself that these thoughts and these feelings are temporary and allow them to pass. This mindfulness practice will keep those thoughts from swirling out of control by bringing yourself back to the present moment.

Then, instead of panicking, recite today’s Baby Step mantra:

No matter what’s going on around me, I choose to remain calm and confident. Because when I do, I maintain the clarity I need to make the best choice for me.