How to Feel Less Overwhelmed, is the goal for today!

Are you feeling overwhelmed and burned out?

Do you long for more peace, order, and contentment?

If so, you are not alone. Women are constantly telling me how overwhelmed they feel and it breaks my heart!

I recently scheduled over 15 Zoom calls with women to find out what they are struggling with most and I found that the number one comment I heard was "I feel so overwhelmed."

Today I am sharing with you 7 tips for how to feel less overwhelmed so that you can start focusing on the things that you want to use your life for.  I hope they give you hope and inspiration.  Life was not meant for you to feel this way every day.  My prayer is that you will listen to this episode and find at least one or two tips that will help you!

Overcoming Overwhelm: Practical Strategies from Jennifer Ford Berry

In a recent episode of "The Make Room Show," host Jennifer Ford Berry, a certified professional organizer, best-selling author, and coach, delves into the pervasive issue of feeling overwhelmed. With her mission to help women create space for what truly matters, Jennifer shares her personal experiences and offers actionable strategies to manage and overcome overwhelm effectively.

Understanding Overwhelm: A Personal Reflection

Jennifer begins by sharing her own recent experiences of feeling overwhelmed. A particularly busy month, which included a significant event, a family vacation, and the emotional toll of losing a close friend, left her feeling mentally and physically drained. She emphasizes that overwhelm can stem from various sources, whether external circumstances or internal pressures. Recognizing and acknowledging these feelings is the first crucial step toward addressing them.

The Importance of Reset Days

To combat feelings of overwhelm, Jennifer advocates for the concept of "reset days." These are intentional days set aside to declutter both physical spaces and mental states, organize tasks, and regain focus. Jennifer explains that taking time for oneself is not a luxury but a necessity, especially when life feels chaotic.

Jennifer's Reset Day Process

Jennifer's reset day involves several key activities, each designed to help her regain control and clarity:

1. Decluttering

   • Actionable Advice: Start by picking up items that are out of place around your home. Use a laundry basket to collect items that belong in other rooms, making the process efficient.
   • Insight: A tidy environment can significantly impact your mental state, creating a sense of order and calm that can boost productivity.

2. Creating a To-Do List

   • Actionable Advice: Engage in a "brain dump" by writing down all the tasks you need to accomplish. Use tools like Trello to maintain a master to-do list but create a smaller, focused list for your reset day.
   • Insight: Writing down tasks helps clear your mind and provides a roadmap for the days ahead, reducing the feeling of being overwhelmed by a long mental list.

3. Organizing Papers

   • Actionable Advice: Sort through any accumulated paperwork, distinguishing between junk and important documents. Organize bills and action items to ensure nothing critical slips through the cracks.
   • Insight: Keeping papers organized not only helps you stay on top of important tasks but also alleviates anxiety about misplaced items.

4. Preparing for the Upcoming Week

   • Actionable Advice: Check your pantry and refrigerator, make a grocery list, and restock supplies. Plan meals and schedule appointments for the week ahead.
   • Insight: Proactive preparation is crucial, especially during busy seasons, as it helps streamline daily routines and reduces last-minute stress.

5. Self-Care and Reflection

   • Actionable Advice: Prioritize self-care throughout your reset day. Listen to energizing music, enjoy your favorite beverages, and take time to journal or reflect.
   • Insight: Self-care is essential for recharging and refocusing. Simple acts like taking a walk in nature or spending time with loved ones can make a significant difference in your well-being.

Listening to Your Intuition

Jennifer highlights the importance of listening to one’s intuition. After decluttering her mind and space, she found clarity in her thoughts and feelings. This allowed her to recognize the need for a break and to prioritize her well-being. She recounts a moment when her intuition guided her to take a walk with her dog, enjoying the beauty of nature and the warmth of the spring sun. This simple act of self-care made her feel rejuvenated and more connected to herself.

The Consequences of Avoidance

Jennifer warns against the tendency to avoid feelings of overwhelm. Ignoring these feelings can lead to a cycle of procrastination and increased stress. Instead of addressing the root causes of overwhelm, one might find themselves sinking deeper into chaos, making it even harder to regain control. She encourages listeners to tackle overwhelm head-on, rather than letting it fester.

Seeking Support

For those who may feel guilty about taking time for themselves, Jennifer offers reassurance. She emphasizes that asking for help is not a sign of weakness but a necessary step in maintaining balance. Whether it’s asking a spouse to take the kids out for a few hours or seeking support from family or friends, taking time for oneself ultimately benefits everyone involved. By prioritizing self-care, individuals can return to their responsibilities with renewed energy and focus.

Resources for Overwhelm

Jennifer concludes the episode by inviting listeners to explore additional resources she offers. She mentions her coaching programs and online courses available on her website, as well as an upcoming retreat designed for women feeling overwhelmed. This retreat aims to provide a space for reflection and planning for the future, both personally and professionally.

Final Thoughts

In closing, Jennifer expresses her hope that her experiences and insights will resonate with listeners. She encourages everyone to recognize when they need a break and to take the necessary steps to reset their lives. By sharing her journey, she aims to inspire others to embrace self-care and create a more organized, purposeful life.

For those interested in further support, Jennifer offers a free masterclass titled "Create an Organized and Purposeful Life," where she shares her five core principles for organizing home and life. Listeners can find the link in the show notes to start their journey toward a more organized and fulfilling life.

As the episode wraps up, Jennifer expresses her gratitude to her audience, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles with overwhelm. She encourages them to take action, prioritize self-care, and create the space they need to thrive.

By incorporating these detailed strategies and insights from Jennifer Ford Berry, you can effectively manage feelings of overwhelm and create a more balanced, organized life. Remember, taking time for yourself is not just beneficial for you but also for those around you. Embrace the concept of reset days and make self-care a priority in your routine.

 *Be sure to check out EPISODE 109: Stop Making Excuses and Start Making Progress