It’s the end of term, and it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed and “drowning in tasks” with everything we need to do by the end of term. It’s crucial to address this feeling and regain control over your responsibilities. Here are some steps to help you manage and overcome this overwhelming situation:
- Prioritise Tasks: Begin by listing all the tasks you need to complete. Then, categorise them based on their urgency and importance. This will help you identify which tasks need immediate attention and which can be tackled later.
- Set Realistic Goals: Sometimes, we overwhelm ourselves with unrealistic expectations. Break down large tasks into smaller, more manageable steps and set achievable goals daily or weekly.
- Time Management: Create a schedule or to-do list that allocates specific time blocks for each task. Stick to this schedule as closely as possible to ensure consistent progress.
- Delegate When Possible: If you have colleagues or family members who can assist with specific tasks, don’t hesitate to delegate. Delegation can free up your time and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed.
- Learn to Say No: It’s essential to recognise your limits. Don’t take on more tasks or commitments than you can handle. Politely decline additional responsibilities when you’re already overwhelmed.
- Use Technology: Many productivity tools and apps can help you stay organised, set reminders, and manage your tasks efficiently. Explore options like to-do list apps, calendar apps, and project management tools.
- Take Breaks: Avoid the temptation to work non-stop. Taking short breaks between tasks can help refresh your mind and increase productivity. Use techniques like the Pomodoro method, which involves working for 25 minutes and then taking a 5-minute break.
- Practice Self-Care: Prioritise self-care activities like exercise, meditation, deep breathing, or spending time with loved ones. These activities can help reduce stress and improve your overall well-being.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family members, or colleagues for support or advice. Sometimes, talking through your tasks and challenges with someone else can provide valuable insights and relief.
- Consider Professional Help: If you consistently feel overwhelmed and it’s affecting your mental health and daily functioning, consider seeking the help of a therapist or counsellor. They can provide strategies to manage stress and anxiety.
- Celebrate Progress: Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small they may seem. Recognising your progress can boost your motivation and reduce feelings of overwhelm.
- Learn to Let Go: Understand that you can’t control everything. There may be tasks or situations that you need to let go of or accept as they are. Perfectionism can contribute to feelings of being overwhelmed.
Remember that feeling overwhelmed can be a normal or common experience. It’s okay to seek help or take steps to manage it. Don’t forget that some things can be held over for the next term or year.
Check out other articles Candice has written here.