Even on a good day, life can be overwhelming. Buzzing phones, work obligations, family needs, to-do lists, email overload, expectations, illness, invitations and the list goes on for the things that occupy our time. On top of that we have food choices, clothing choices, money worries, and mental and physical health issues that can weigh us down.

12 Things to Remember When You are Feeling Overwhelmed

So what do we do? How can move through life with less stress and overwhelm? How can we enjoy our lives in the midst of the chaos? I discovered after years of experimenting and eliminating things like clutter, debt, and busyness that it is possible to create a more peaceful environment.

It does take time to change your environment though. It’s worth doing no matter how long it takes, but for some immediate relief when you are feeling overwhelmed, stop and consider these reminders (whichever ones are helpful for your situation).

1.

Worry never works. Let your worry go. It won’t be easy, but do it anyway. Write it down, walk it off, shift your thoughts and keep letting it go. And then do that again and again and again.

2.

If you honor every request with a yes, you will compromise your health, family, peace of mind, and the joy of living your life.

3.

Instead of downplaying or dismissing your feelings when things are heavy or you are overwhelmed, trust them. {Quote from @theminimalists}

4.

Please stop apologizing for who you are. You deserve better and we desperately need you to be unapologetically you. If you are feeling overwhelmed because the people around you don’t support you and lift you up, find new people.

5.

Holding the weight of other people’s expectations is overwhelming but it’s not your responsibility. Isn’t it time to live the life you dreamed about instead of the one others expect of you?

6.

Take care of you. Your health comes first. {Quote from @thehumblepoet}

7.

It’s always a good time to be grateful and that means expressing thanks even when you aren’t feeling your best, or when you are feeling overwhelmed. Even in the dark times, there are things to be thankful for. It may be more challenging to feel or express your gratitude, but then it’s even more important to do it. Join the 30-day Bring Gratitude Challenge for more fun and accountability.

8.

What if you stopped keeping score? Imagine the heart space you could create if you stopped holding on to who emptied the dishwasher or took out the trash last? Maybe it doesn’t matter who called who last. Call if you want to connect. And think about how much more you’d enjoy spending time with your friends if you didn’t have to remember who paid for coffee or lunch last time? Things don’t have to be even to be good.

9.

Unplug. Back Off. Let go. Refresh. Restore. {Quote from @annelamott}

10.

What people think of you has nothing to do with you. If they tell you something you that isn’t helpful, simply smile and say, “thanks so much for your feedback.” and move on.

11.

I always say no to ignoring my heart. She knows things.

12.

Be picky about what gets your energy and attention. When everything is important, nothing is.

Pay attention to how you are feeling.

Feeling overwhelmed is a sign. It’s a signal to shift something from your mindset to your schedule. You have the power to cancel something or to say no thank you. You are brave enough to make a small change that will ease your overwhelm. You have the option of deciding what matters to you and making room for whatever that is.

I know it’s not easy (the good stuff usually isn’t), but it’s worth it. Notice when you are feeling overwhelmed and choose to pause and remind yourself that you can turn things around — inch by inch, step by step, and thought by thought.

Now, it’s your turn…

Before you go, let us know:

Which “reminder” above resonates with you the most right now and why?

Leave a comment below and share your thoughts.

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