Step Out of Overwhelm by Walking Away from Stress—Even for a Little While
I have yet to meet a woman, personally or professionally, who isn’t hard on herself about getting things done.
“I still need to get to the grocery store.”
“I wish I could get a workout in.”
“I’m not performing as well as I could at work.”
All of these goals are meaningful. But when our daily focus becomes centered on what we haven’t accomplished, we’re already starting from a place of lack.
When we constantly berate ourselves for what’s left undone, it becomes hard to find the emotional and physical energy to shift anything. The negative energy it takes to be frustrated with ourselves keeps us stuck. It’s like spinning in circles—more pressure, less movement. These messages often trigger our minds and bodies to shut down rather than rise up.
And here’s the thing—if a friend came to you overwhelmed and exhausted, would you speak to her the way you speak to yourself? Probably not.
Have Compassion for Yourself
When we meet ourselves with kindness and compassion instead of criticism, everything softens. We might find that we’re not only happier but actually more productive, too. Forcing ourselves to push forward when what we really need is a few minutes of rest usually backfires. We end up depleted and resentful.
We can’t be in constant motion all the time—and that’s more than okay. Real growth often happens in those steady, quiet spaces between the push.
If it feels like you’re spinning your wheels, it may be because you’re not giving yourself the chance to gather your strength. Notice the words you use when you need to rest or slow down. Are you calling yourself lazy? Are you nagging yourself internally to “do more” or “hurry up”? Those quiet messages can keep you from both joy and true productivity.
Slow Down and Step Out of Overwhelm
So how do you actually slow down in a way that creates more ease and energy? It starts with your mindset. The moment we begin to see rest and stillness as part of the process—not as something we have to earn—we begin to step out of the spiral of overwhelm.
Sometimes the most productive thing we can do is simply pause. Step away from the stress, even for a little while. Breathe. Come back to yourself.
You don’t have to earn your rest.
Love,
Certified Professional Coach and Psychologist
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How often have you wished for that person in your life who listens deeply, doesn’t judge you, and doesn’t try to fix you? That person who holds space for you to talk through your struggles, your hopes, and dreams so that you can live the personal and professional life that you truly want? I’m that person. Yes, I’m a psychologist and a professional life and leadership coach but my superpower is listening, deep, empathic, compassionate listening. If you’ve been seeking a professional listener who will help you live the life you truly desire, let’s set up a time to talk. My email is Lisa@LisaKaplin.com.