Being overwhelmed happens occasionally, or regularly. Without getting to the root of being overwhelmed we continue this unhealthy pattern.
What is overwhelmed?
We hear the term “overwhelmed” frequently. But, what is it? And, how do we know that’s where we’re living?
Some marks of being overwhelmed include: restlessness, an inability to sleep, habitually stressed out, unable to perform basic functions, lack of peace, excessive anger at everything and everyone, no or poor concentration, and lots of work hours but low productivity.
We thrash around trying to get better, but that effort doesn’t work at all!
How did we get here?
Is there a path that takes us to being overwhelmed? Is it a problem we didn’t see coming? Are we powerless as it unfolds? In short, what’s the root of being overwhelmed?
Although there are differences between people, our choices contribute to overwhelm.
Here’s one path to becoming overwhelmed, based on a series of WHY questions:
Being overwhelmed suggests we’ve taken on too much. That is, we don’t have the emotional capacity for the current demands of life.
Why? Because we will not say NO.
Why? Because we’re unclear about our priorities.
Why? Because we’re unclear about our purpose in our life.
Why? Because we’ve not done the hard work of identifying WHO we are.
It’s hard to pursue life purpose when we’re unclear about fundamentals such as our strengths and our preferences. Ultimately, we must have those hard, who-am-I and how-did-I-get-here conversations with ourself!
Being convinced I’m right doesn’t prevent destructive life outcomes! Proverbs 14.12 and 16.25 paraphrase, proverbsforprofessionals.net
A Personal Reflection
For me, personal growth was delayed until a mid-life career change.
It was at that point I started the self-examination to understand who I am, my strengths, a best-fit career path, and how I could flourish as husband, father, and provider.
The years prior to that mid-life change were a time of overwhelm in many respects, including financially, emotionally, and relationally. I call them my Seven Lean Years! Ugh!
The self-examination was hard work. As was admitting that what I was doing wasn’t working! Yes, that took some humility.
What else helped? The support and patience of my wife. Wise counsel from my pastor and others. And, my willingness to allow God to lead us.
Apply This Today!
The root of being overwhelmed is often our poor choices, paired with self-will and stubbornness. We must admit we put ourself there before looking for a way out. Remember, being a victim keeps us overwhelmed!
Overwhelm continues until we’re clear about our priorities. In turn, priorities enforce boundaries that guide our choices. Remember, poor choices produce poor outcomes!
Priorities demand clarity about our life purpose for the current season of life. Remember, without clarity of purpose, all life paths look equally inviting!
Life purpose clarifies who we are. Our WHO adds value. If we’re not adding value, it’s time for a career transition with a marketable skill. Remember, transformation begins with WHO!
A Question to Consider
Clarity involves self-awareness and self-worth, which help us set priorities and boundaries. What’s your process for selecting and enforcing priorities?
I’m Dale Young. My posts share the balanced life to build wise character and guide wise behavior.
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