I have been writing lately about being overwhelmed and you guys have had some great suggestions. Jessiejack wrote:
Sometimes when I get overwhelmed, I do what I call a QFC (QuickFire Challenge ala top chef) I write down the next immediate 5 things to do. That could be small or big things - like take out the trash, make that phone call or pay the bills. It has to be doable and concrete. For some reason, I calm down and focus better. If I'm feeling frisky I may even put a timer on!:)
I love that idea! I tried it today and can tell you it worked. And the other thing she didn't mention is that it energized me to keep going -- and do 5 more! I think sometimes if we are faced with a giant mess (or even a regular mess) it can look so huge and insurmountable that there doesn't seem like a way to get it taken care of. Choosing five do-able things -- that you know you can complete immediately and with success, is an awesome way to begin to tackle the beast.
The other thing I love about JessieJack's strategy is that since they are quick and complete-able (yes, I made that word up) tasks, you will really start seeing a difference quickly.
Thanks for the awesome advice, JessieJack! And thanks to ALL of you - you all have shared some fabulous comments -- thank you so much! You rock.
That's great if writing a list works for you Amy, and it's a great suggestion. I find that for me, writing a list is a bit like when I write a shopping list. When I'm in the shop - I get distracted!
ReplyDeleteGlad the QFC helps! I like it when I feel overwhelmed and frantic so that I don't have to take the time to decide what to do next. That decision process often takes too long and I get all analytical. This way I just work the next item - no thinking!
ReplyDeleteWendy -- that is a perfect analogy! I totally agree -- shopping or cleaning, a list keeps me on track. And no distractions!
ReplyDeleteJessiejack, you are so right. I think the list actually takes some of the work out of my hands, like you said, by making the decisions ahead of time. I never thought of it like that...so interesting.
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