I want to talk about the fear of being overwhelmed. As business owners or career professionals, the constant demand on you can create a fear of being overwhelmed and unable to manage the workload effectively well.
I want to say to you today that focusing on the task ahead with the feeling of being overwhelmed, will only bring more of it and will discourage you. In my over 20 years of being an Entrepreneur, the way I deal with the fear of being overwhelmed is to look at the task ahead and find ways to cut it into bite sizes, you know smaller tasks that I can easily work with, so that I am not feeling like I have too many things to do. I also prioritise them in order of importance and I reward myself when a task is completed. I love the reward system as I’m always looking forward to it. Sometimes I reward myself with a snack or a book or buy myself something. I have also learned to say “no” to things I can’t fully commit to. Setting clear boundaries.
Here are my five tips to stop the fear of overwhelm in its tracks:
- Break down tasks into smaller, more manageable chunks and prioritise them based on importance and urgency. Delegate tasks that can be handled by others, freeing up your time and mental energy for high-priority activities.
- Set realistic deadlines and allocate specific time slots for each task or project. Use time-blocking techniques to focus on one task at a time and avoid multitasking, which can contribute to feelings of overwhelm.
- Recognise your limits and don’t hesitate to decline additional commitments or requests that could lead to overwhelm. Saying no to non-essential tasks or obligations allows you to maintain control over your schedule and prioritize self-care.
- Incorporate regular breaks into your schedule to recharge and prevent burnout. Step away from your work environment, engage in physical activity, or practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation to reduce stress levels and regain focus.
- Be kind to yourself and recognise that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed at times. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging your efforts and accomplishments, even when things don’t go as planned. Treat yourself with the same kindness and understanding you would offer to a friend facing similar challenges.
- Reward and celebrate yourself. For every task you are able to complete, give yourself a reward and acknowledge that you are taking action, no matter how small you might think it is, it is adding to moving you a step further to your goal being achieved.
By implementing these tips, you can effectively manage feelings of overwhelm and maintain a balanced mindset, allowing you to approach tasks and challenges with clarity, confidence, and resilience.
The pressure of thinking you have too many things to do can have a negative impact on you, like sleepless nights, anxiety, worry, even fear that stresses you. And we all know that nothing great comes out of these negative emotion.
Instead of fearing being overwhelmed, channel the energy into encouraging yourself to do the work in small parts, reward and celebrate yourself after each task is completed. Be patient with yourself too. Yes you are a leader but you are human after all and deserve to take care of yourself
Till next week, I am Dr. Tewa Onasanya and I am living the words I speak.
Dr Tewa Onasanya is a Mindset Stylist and Founder of Exquisite Magazine, ELOY Awards Foundation and EMAC Foundation. She is a speaker and an author of several books. Tea with Dr Tewa Onasanya is a weekly editorial on how business owners can rule their minds to build thriving businesses. #teawithTewa
