Have you ever felt overwhelmed to the point you can’t or don’t want to do anything? Instead of getting things done on your to-do list, you play computer games or even clean and organize your house (okay that may be on your to-do list)? But you can’t do what you need to because you are tired and burnt out.
So how can you change your situation—slow down and actually get somewhere? Some things I’ve heard that work for people are:
1. Make a to-do list with everything you need to do and mark it off as you go—the more small tasks on the list the more you get to cross off and feel like you’ve accomplished something.
2. It’s okay to take breaks and you should frequently throughout the day but limit how long you take the one—use a timer if you need to.
3. Do something for fun that isn’t similar to the work you’re avoiding.
4. Exercise—whatever you enjoy doing.
5. Start something you’ve always wanted to do that puts a smile on your face.
6. Don’t lose track of your friends (and family). Touch base with them.
7. Take a vacation even if it is only a day or two. Vacations give you permission to forget work and just enjoy.
8. Eat nutritiously but also allow yourself a treat every once and a while (it’s okay to eat a piece of chocolate pie or in my case have a double dip cookie dough ice cream waffle cone.
9. Smile and laugh.
10. Give your problems to God. He is here to help us.
Okay, it’s your turn. What would you add to this list? Any suggestions are welcome.
Margaret Daley's latest book is Deadly Intent (book 2 in Strong Women, Extraordinary Situations)
The blurb: Texas Ranger Sarah Osborn thought she would never see her high school sweetheart, Ian O'Leary, again. But fifteen years later, Ian, an ex-FBI agent, has someone targeting him, and she's assigned to the case. Can Sarah protect Ian and her heart? Buy links: Amazon, Barnes and Noble, Apple and Kobo.
Margaret Daley's website: http://www.margaretdaley.com
I have the issue but its not cos im tired or burnt out its that my headpain is so bad at present trying to do anything more than resting causes major pain.
ReplyDeleteBut like the idea of doing something different. for me going for a walk normally helps clear the head and feels good.
Jenny, I"m sorry for your headaches.
ReplyDeleteMargaret, thanks for the list! I'm definitely one who gets overwhelmed. I find just checking one thing off a to-do list makes me feel better, like I'm accomplishing something.
A wonderful reminder!
ReplyDeleteLove your ideas, Margaret! I'm definitely a list-maker. Nothing would get done without them. We just got back from vacation, so I guess that crosses one very fun item off the list.
ReplyDeleteI'm another who makes lists. They really help when I'm feeling overwhelmed. Just putting the items down on paper helps because I no longer have to remember a mental list. Seeing the items in writing also helps me prioritize them.
ReplyDeleteI live with my lists and calendar book or I'd never get anything done.
ReplyDeleteJenny, praying your headaches get better.