Overcome Being Overwhelmed

In today's hectic and fast-paced way of life, wouldn't you agree that it sure is easy to become overwhelmed? Let’s face it—most of us are trying to squeeze in something in our lives.

For those of us in the military we are usually juggling our normal family commitments on top of all the military ones, and very often filling in the gap left by a deployed spouse. Most experts will tell us that the best thing we can do for ourselves and everyone around us is to just slow down! Sounds simple, right? Ha! It’s not unlike the experience of having a big wave completely engulf you while playing in the surf at the beach.

When I was a young girl living in San Diego, I learned by trial and error to float in the calm water beyond the breakers and body surf on Southern California beaches. But getting to the calm water on the other side of the waves was tricky part! Surfing skill comes first from watching and understanding a wave as it breaks, so you are able to position yourself in the perfect spot to catch the wave or dodge it - whatever the case may be. After endless weekends, with hours and hours of observation and treacherous practice, I began to understand the power of the ocean. After many years, I found a rhythm. Not going against it – but working with the wave– it all became so much less overwhelming!

The dictionary defines “overwhelm” as “to become overwhelmed by a superior force.” Without a doubt, the point at which we become so overwhelmed by the heavy demands of life that we want to scream, cry with frustration or give up, comes from the buildup of pressure. How do we reduce this anxiety level? With a few simple steps:


Step One - Slow Down


This is the most important step of all. When stress crashes down on you like a wave, walk away from it to a place of safety, get your breath and assess the situation. Just getting out of the water can quickly calm you down and help you to get your thoughts in order so that you can start fresh. Away from the beach? Take a walk, meditate, or simply shut your door for a few minutes and listen to soothing music. At work? Sit in your car and do the same thing.



log on again in a few days (while I think about what to write) to read the next installment