Recently, my daughter was getting married, my husband and I were moving, and I was beginning a few new projects. There were days when I felt like I couldn’t catch my breath. It felt like a tidal wave crashing over me. This is how life works but by shifting our perspective in these moments we can stay above the fray.
Here are a few tips I’ve learned to help reframe those crazy moments, so you can keep your business moving forward in those chaotic times.
Take time to plan. Having a plan gives us a sense of peace and helps us focus on those important tasks. If you have a list, you can cast off the overwhelm in your mind and just do the next thing on the list. This helps keep you focused and on task and makes you more efficient when you are working.
Stay present in the moment. Multi-tasking can seem helpful, but it can kill our creativity as well as our productivity. When we are working on a specific task, it’s important to be present in it. Thinking about the next 5 things we must do breeds chaos. If you find your mind running ahead, remind yourself to focus on the task at hand. (this takes practice, be kind to yourself)
Perfectionism must go. Trying to make everything perfect, will bring you frustration, cause you to resist help from others, and keep you stuck. Excellence in business is necessary, however, perfection is impossible to attain and will leave you trapped in overwhelm. Getting it done, rather than perfect is more effective.
Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Are there things you can delegate? It’s important to ask for help when you begin to feel overwhelmed. It can be professional help but it doesn’t have to be. Bringing someone in who isn’t emotionally involved in the outcome, can be invaluable when many things weighing you down. Do your research and ask others who is their go-to person.
Celebrate your wins. It’s important to stop, take a break and celebrate even the small wins. Stopping to celebrate gives you a chance to appreciate how far you’ve come. You can refresh and be ready for the next thing. It’s imperative to help you combat the overwhelming feelings that come with having lots of things happening at once.
With a little bit of practice, you can learn to thrive in busy times and enjoy the ride!
What are some ways you celebrate your wins? Who do you turn to for help or encouragement?