Battling Overwhelm
Have you ever felt overwhelmed by everything that needs to be done? Have you ever felt so burdened with tasks that it’s hard to focus? If so, you’re not alone—this feeling is completely normal. The real question is: How can we stay focused and effective amid storms of responsibilities and problems?
This mini-blog will give you five tips to help you stay focused and productive while avoiding stress-induced frustration with your spouse and others.
1. Spend Time with Jesus
Where do you find peace? The answer is in the Prince of Peace Himself. No amount of work, success, or order will bring lasting fulfillment. True satisfaction comes only from Jesus. When you spend time with Christ, everything is put into perspective—you realize that your current struggles are small in comparison to an eternity with Him.
2. Take Small, Complete Bites
Instead of trying to tackle everything at once, break tasks into smaller, manageable pieces. Decide what you will accomplish today, and commit to doing it well. Avoid biting off more than you can chew, and ensure you complete what you start. For example, if your home feels out of control, focus on organizing just one drawer today.
3. Don’t Let Past Failures Hold You Back
If you’ve let your budget, home, or health slip, dwelling on past mistakes won’t change anything. The best thing you can do is start making incremental progress today. As a friend of mine once said, “Be a windshield guy, not a rearview mirror guy.” Keep looking forward!
4. Don’t Have Two Bad Days in a Row
We all have days when we miss quiet time, feel unproductive, or act impatiently. The key is to remember that God’s mercies are new every morning. If you’ve had a bad day, accept Jesus’ forgiveness and commit to making tomorrow better.
5. Simplify and Systematize
First, simplify your life wherever possible. Reduce obligations, pare down your schedule, and create more margin. Doing so will go a long way in reducing overwhelm. Additionally, having systems in place can help maintain order. For example, you might decide to pay bills every Saturday morning or exercise before work each day. Consistent routines can help reinforce good habits.
Staying focused on Jesus, remaining effective, and maintaining peace is a lifelong battle—but it’s a fight worth engaging in. As a takeaway, identify one area in your life where you want to replace overwhelm with order. Then, use these five tips to make real progress toward your goals.
