This made me wonder: how on EARTH do I work through my stress without letting go of the balloon (i.e. not go completely nuts)?!
Fortunately, due to an incredible partner, counselor, and great friends, I've been processing my feelings and trying out some strategies. I wanted to share them with you, whether you are feeling overwhelmed right now or might experience these feelings in the future.
4 STRATEGIES FOR MANAGING COMPLETE OVERWHELM
1 - CRY
I'm serious. I've cried almost every day for the past few weeks - it has been really beneficial. I am grieving the process of change, naming what scares me, and sharing my bittersweet news with my neighbors. I'm choosing not to bypass any emotion.
2 - ASK FOR HELP
So often we get so far down the rabbit hole of overwhelm that we tell ourselves the story that we need to figure out everything on our own. That can't be farther from the truth.
People who ask for help are stronger and wiser leaders and humans. And the people who care about you (and have your best interest at heart) want to help you. When you don't ask for help, it actually can create negative consequences for yourself and those around you.
So - ask for help. If you don't know what to ask for, tell someone you trust that you need help and want their support identifying ways that they can be of assistance.
3 - TRY OUT THE PENNY VS. DOLLAR MINDSET
My friend Hadley shared this concept with me the other day. Imagine that everything on your plate is contained in one dollar bill, and holding onto that dollar feels very overwhelming. Instead, envision your journey as 100 pennies.
As you move through each day, envision grabbing one penny at a time. What is one simple action you can take that will move you in the direction you want to go? Take that action, celebrate it, and then choose another small action. Keep on going until you get to the dollar bill - your big picture goal.
4 - PRACTICE BREATHING
Last, remember to breathe. When we are really stressed and on autopilot mode, sometimes our breathing doesn't function optimally. Pausing during the day to practice deep and mindful breathing helps you tap into your parasympathetic nervous system and reduces your stress. Don't believe me? Check out this resource.
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Wishing you a mindful week with more authenticity and self-compassion. If you have someone in your life who is feeling really overwhelmed right now, please consider forwarding this newsletter to them and asking how you can help. We are in this together.
