Do you ever feel overwhelmed at work? Just when you think you have everything planned and worked out, something new pops up, adding to your list. You’re not alone; I feel that way too, and so do millions of others. Even the most organized people in the world sometimes get overwhelmed by work. In this blog, I will share five simple strategies that help me overcome my feeling of being overwhelmed.
1. Get Outside and Exercise
When you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s crucial to step away from your desk and take a break from your work mode. Going outside for a walk or engaging in some physical exercise can be incredibly beneficial. Exercise reduces stress hormones like adrenaline and cortisol in the body and stimulates the production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers and mood elevators in the brain.
2. Engage in Low-Effort Activities
Often, the best ideas come to us in moments like when we’re taking a shower, as our minds wander freely without constraints. Allowing your mind to wander without focusing on a specific task can bring clarity. Engage in activities that don’t require much thought, such as washing dishes, watering plants, or making tea. These tasks let your brain operate in ‘automatic mode,’ giving it the chance to wander. At best, you’ll come up with great new ideas; at worst, you’ll give your brain a break from focused work.
3. Write Everything Down
There’s something almost magical about writing things down on paper. In a world where we’re often typing on computers, writing by hand can feel more personal and tangible. When overwhelmed, take time to write down all your tasks – and I mean everything. Then, prioritize and start with the tasks that are most urgent and impactful towards your personal goals.
4. Talk it Out and Break it Down
We sometimes exaggerate tasks in our minds, making them seem larger than they are. When you’re too focused and can’t see the big picture, talking it over with someone can be helpful. Share your desire to minimize and break down the problem. Discussing worst-case scenarios can also add realism and clarity. Often, just talking about it can provide clarity, and the other person might offer new insights.
5. Rubber Duck Debugging
A technique popular among programmers is ‘Rubber Duck Debugging.’ When you’re stuck or overwhelmed, try simplifying the issue by explaining it to an inanimate object, like a rubber duck. This step-by-step explanation can prompt your brain to re-evaluate and solve the problem more effectively.
These are my five really simple strategies for dealing with overwhelm. What are yours?
