7 Ways to Simplify Your Life When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

Are you feeling overwhelmed? You’re not alone. Sometimes we take on more tasks and more responsibilities than we can actually handle. Doing so can be exhausting and stressful. How do you simplify your life when you’re overwhelmed? Here are seven tips.

1. Set your priorities.

Setting priorities allows us to be more productive. It can also help when we’re feeling overwhelmed. For one, it makes us accept that we can’t do everything all at once. For another, it lets us focus on what’s more urgent and important.

2. Reduce unnecessary tasks.

Have you taken a closer look at your task list? Do you really need to do everything that’s on there? Maybe your to-do list is full of busywork that isn’t crucial to achieving your goals. By cutting back on these unnecessary tasks, you get to save and redirect your time and energy to the things that really matter.

3. Delegate responsibility to others.

Perhaps the reason why you’re feeling overwhelmed is you’ve taken on more responsibility than you can manage. Or you could have set tasks for yourself that are outside your wheelhouse. Instead of pushing through and then burning out, find someone in your team who has the capability and interest to take care of these responsibilities on your behalf.

4. Clear out clutter.

Clutter can contribute so much to feeling overwhelmed. Your clutter can distract you and require you to spend more energy staying focused. Clean the mess off your desk and clear it of whatever items you don’t need in getting your work done. You’ll be able to breathe and focus more easily when your space is clutter-free.

5. Get rid of things you no longer need.

Take some time to examine the contents of your closet, drawers, cabinets, and other storage containers. Do you need everything you have stored there? Having too much stuff you don’t use anymore can contribute to your stress and overwhelm, if only because it takes extra time to go through them to find what you need. Ridding your closet of stuff you no longer use can leave you feeling lighter afterward.

6. Take a break from social media.

Scrolling down social media isn’t always harmless viewing. It can lead to negative feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. It can also trigger intense feelings of jealously and the fear of missing out. Instead of getting your updates from social media, why not take the time to call a friend for a chat? It’s a more meaningful way of spending time and getting in touch with the people you care about.

7. Say no to more commitment.

Sometimes, to prove our worth, we take on more responsibility than we can handle. It can feel flattering that you’re being given more to do. After all, it shows that you’re seen as trustworthy and reliable. But having your cup overflowing isn’t always a good thing. If you stretch yourself too thinly, you won’t be able to give your commitments your best effort. Don’t feel guilty about saying no if your cup is already full.

Want more tips for simplifying your life and avoiding overwhelm?  Get a free copy of my book, Be the Magic of You .