Welcome to the first episode of MindSweeping Emotions! We’re going to kick things off by diving into a topic that resonates deeply with many of us: feeling overwhelmed.
In today’s fast-paced world, feeling overwhelmed is almost a given. Personally, I feel overwhelmed about 60% of the time, while I imagine the remaining 40% of peace happens while I’m asleep. (Scratch that — I just learned that you can feel overwhelmed in your dreams, so it looks like we’re not even safe from it in our sleep!) Whether it’s due to work demands, personal responsibilities, or an ever-growing to-do list, the sensation of being overwhelmed can be all-consuming, making it tough to find balance and clarity.
The episode is available to watch on our YouTube channel (here). We’ve also included a transcript below for those who prefer to read at their own pace or revisit key points. Additionally, we’ve included some self-reflection questions at the end of this post to help you delve deeper into the topic.
Episode 01: When You Feel Overwhelmed
“It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re so focused on the future that you forget about today.”
Ashley Heatherington
You don’t have to figure everything out today. You don’t have to solve your whole life tonight. And you don’t have to tackle everything at once. You just have to show up and try. You just have to focus on the most immediate thing in front of you and you have to trust that you’ll figure out the rest along the way.”
Daniell Koepke
“Stop overthinking. You can’t move forward if you are too busy spiralling in thoughts about the worst-case scenario.”
@Wetheurban
“Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.”
Simplyblessedshy.com
“Rest is not idle, is not wasteful. Sometimes rest is the most productive thing you can do for body and soul.”
Erica Layne
“And when you feel yourself overwhelmed, I hope you learn to find peace in the way the waves crash around you and not mistake them for drowning.”
Arielle Estoria
“Exchange overthinking for overwhelming peace that says, ‘I will be okay without knowing everything’.”
Morgan Harper Nicholas
“Sometimes the best thing you can do is not think, not wonder, not imagine, not obsess. Just breathe and have faith that everything will work out for the best.”
Unknown
“The world is overwhelming as it is. Be gentle with yourself.”
Themindjournal
“You have dealt with so much, and are doing the best that you can. Take a moment now to appreciate how strong you are.”
Karen Salmansohn
“When life feels overwhelming, remember that you are worthwhile, you are needed, and you are enough exactly as you are.”
Sarah Hartley
“Sometimes when you’re overwhelmed by a situation, when you’re in the darkest of darkness, that’s when your priorities are reordered.”
Phoebe Snow
Practical Tips
Tip One
Prioritize and Reassess
Identify what truly matters to you and adjust your focus accordingly.
Tip Two
Set Realistic Deadlines
Identify what truly matters to you and adjust your focus accordingly.
Tip Three
Seek Support
Talking to someone can provide perspective, space to release emotions, and valuable support.
Tip Four
Learn to Say No
Protect your time and energy by saying no when your plate is already full.
Tip Five
Practice Mindfulness
Use mindfulness and breathing techniques to reduce stress and stay grounded.
Tip Six
Take Breaks
Ensure you take regular breaks, relax, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
P.S.
Focus on one thought at a time. One step at a time. One day at a time.
Conclusion
It’s important to remember that it’s okay to pause, prioritize our well-being, and trust in our ability to navigate challenges as they come. Amidst the chaos, let’s take solace in the simplicity of focusing on the present moment, allowing ourselves the grace to rest, reflect, and recharge. Remember, you are resilient, capable, and worthy of kindness—especially from yourself. Embrace each step forward, knowing that you are enough, exactly as you are.
Reflection Questions
- Are you often focused on the future instead of the present?
- What immediate task can you focus on today to reduce anxiety about the future?
- What strategies can you use to stop overthinking and move forward?
- How do you respond when you start to feel overwhelmed, and are you kind to yourself?
- What are some ways you can incorporate more rest and self-care into your routine?
