Life has a way of pulling us in a million directions, doesn’t it? Just the other day, I found myself juggling my daughter’s move, my parents’ visit, and a neverending list of work tasks. Oh, and did I mention I’m moving soon?
Overwhelm started to creep in, encouraging me to panic and push through.
But here’s the thing: I’ve danced with overwhelm before and know that frantic energy never leads to my best work. So, I decided to take a different approach.
I indulged in a luxurious bath (lavender salts and all!).
I let myself get lost in the beauty of the trees outside my window. As I soaked away the tension, I noticed a tiny bird perched on a branch, utterly unperturbed by the flurry of activity around it.
In that serene moment, I realized something profound: overwhelm is a choice, and it’s not one I’m willing to make.
When I emerged from that bath, I felt a shift. My energy was lighter, more focused. Clarity had replaced confusion. I got dressed with a newfound sense of purpose and tackled my day using the strategies I’m sharing in today’s podcast episode.
Here’s the truth: overwhelm is a choice. And with all the choices we have in life, it’s one we can confidently leave behind.
Instead, let’s choose to savor the simple moments, find peace in the present, and trust that we will accomplish what needs to be done.
If you ever find yourself drowning in a sea of obligations, remember this: overwhelm may knock at your door, but you hold the key to peace within yourself.
So, take a deep breath and go take a bath!
Until next time,
The Three Ds
“Overwhelm is never created by anything outside of you. Overwhelm is an emotion, and emotions are created by the thoughts in your head. Period."
~Tonya Leigh
Let that thought sink in. YOU have the power to untangle yourself from the web of overwhelm by simply shifting how you think.
One way I do this is through a technique I call The Three Ds. This tactic gives me clarity, solidifies my priorities, and puts me back in control of my life.
Here’s how to harness the power of The Three Ds:
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Take out a sheet of paper and write down every task on your mind.
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On a new sheet of paper, create 3 columns: Delete, Delegate, and Delight.
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Unnecessary tasks (think “shoulds”) go in the Delete column. And then… let them go!
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Place tasks that can be outsourced in the Delegate column and entrust them to others who can support you.
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Everything else is a must-do and goes in the Delight column.
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Now, your work is to schedule all your Delight tasks and – you guessed it! – delight in them. Because what’s the point in doing something and being miserable about it?
The Three Ds are your secret weapon for conquering overwhelm and creating a life that sets your soul on fire. Try this exercise and see what happens.
Mini Day Planner
Are you ready to take your newfound clarity and purpose to the next level? Say hello to the Mini Daily Planner – a compact, stylish organization companion.
While I’ve previously highlighted the larger version of this day planner, I know not everyone wants to carry something bulky. That’s why I’m thrilled there’s a miniature version of this trusted tool. It’s perfect for harnessing the power of planning without the extra size weighing you down.
If you want to elevate your travel game and reconnect with your Sweet Spot, give the Paravel Weekender Bag a try.
When You Feel Like You’re Drowning in Your To-Dos
Feeling overwhelmed by your never-ending to-do list? Trust me, I’ve been there! But, not anymore…
This week on the podcast, I’m diving into the strategies that have transformed my relationship with my tasks, and I’ll share how to trade in that overwhelming sense of drowning for a life of clarity, focus, and joyful productivity! If you’re ready to take control of your to-dos and make them work for you, this episode is a must-listen.
// TheEDIT
A weekly digital magazine by the School of Self-Image
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