Everyone has moments where they feel overwhelmed. But the pandemic has heightened these feelings for many. Many have to work from home while dealing with feelings of uncertainty. All these new responsibilities can feel overwhelming.
What was once a moment of annoyance is now a constant menace. Trying to handle overwhelming emotions daily is hard work. And simply pushing through despite everything can lead to burnout.
So, what can you do to feel better and stop feeling overwhelmed at work? These tips can help.
1. Perform tasks that are familiar to you. Find an activity that you find satisfying and familiar on your to-do list. Ensure that the job is not taxing.
● For example, instead of knocking off tons of items on your to-do list, choose one task, like writing an email. Then do the work. Why is this effective? Because you get a mental boost from completing familiar tasks.
● The more energy you have going into your day, the less likely it is that you'll feel overwhelmed.
2. Work on tasks you aren't familiar with, but you've been avoiding. If you're struggling with your workload or something is threatening to derail you, take it one small step at a time. Don't take on too much at once.
● Tackling too much can feel overwhelming. This tip might appear to go against the previous point. But it isn't. There are some tasks that you can't justify adding to your to-do list. However, you might still struggle to complete them.
● Those are the types of tasks to accomplish here. When you clear a job you've put on hold, you tend to feel like you've accomplished something. That can help you feel like you're getting things done and relieve you of your feelings of overwhelm.
3. Perform half of your tasks. Splitting up duties can ignite you, which can help you conquer your day. Instead of tackling your entire to-do list in one shot, focus on one task at a time. Then, move on to the next.
● Review what you accomplished, and strategically plan another job for tomorrow. Also, when you're down and feeling overwhelmed, it's almost impossible to stay productive.
● Trying to push through and perform at the same level of productivity can lead you to burn yourself out. So instead of playing it safe, take a break when the situation calls for it. This shift can help you recharge mentally, and you can return to work with a fresh mindset.
4. Get some rest. Getting enough sleep is not only good for your overall health, but it's also vital for your productivity. When you're well-rested and ready to tackle a difficult task, you tend to be much more effective.
● Take long breaks throughout the day and shorter ones between functions. Varying your rest periods this way reduces your feelings of overwhelm and keeps you more focused.
● It also prevents you from getting burned out and going crazy to work throughout the day more efficiently. Getting some rest when you feel overwhelmed can help you think clearly.
5. Prioritize your tasks. Adjusting your workflow to include more delegating and less time handling activities yourself can help you feel less overwhelmed.
● If you constantly handle your jobs, you'll burn out pretty fast, and it'll take a lot longer for you to feel focused and productive. Let other people handle some of your tasks -- if possible -- so you can focus more on the rest.
● This approach will make everybody at work feel happier and more productive.
Everyone feels overwhelmed from time to time. It's one of those things that comes with the territory, at least for a while. What matters most is how you manage these feelings and approach them.
Also, be sure to schedule some fun and productive time during the day, whether it's a quick break or coffee with a friend.
The key to maintaining productivity is feeling hopeful that what you're doing is working and knowing that you have the tools to succeed.
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