When you just can’t catch one.
I know that if you are chasing a toddler day in and day out, you certainly may often feel like you can’t catch them… they are SO busy.
ALL. THE. TIME.
But that’s not what I’m talking about today.
What do you do when you feel like you just can’t catch a break, no matter what you do?
Whether it be the kid that is constantly sick, nose running and then it’s you and your partner.
The trips to the pediatrician for the head bonks, the ear infections, or the mysterious rash.
Your daycare closing for the snow and now you are trying to chase your kiddo and work at the same time… all from home.
It seems neverending sometimes.
AMIRITE?
Life can be tough, and it's not uncommon to feel like you're constantly facing one challenge after another. When you feel like you just can't catch a break, it's important to take steps to address these feelings to regain a sense of control. While you can’t always stop life from coming at you, we can explore some strategies for coping with the feeling of being overwhelmed.
Take a Step Back
Sometimes, when we're feeling overwhelmed, we can lose sight of the bigger picture. Take a step back and try to see the situation from a different perspective. Ask yourself, "Will this matter in a year from now?" Taking a step back can help you realize that the situation may not be as dire as you initially thought.
2. Practice Self-Care
Self-care is important, especially when you're feeling overwhelmed. Make time for yourself, even if it's just a few minutes a day. Take a walk, read a book, dance it out in the living room, or practice mindfulness. Doing something you enjoy can help you recharge and feel more in control. Self-care is never selfish.
3. Reach Out for Support
Don't be afraid to reach out to friends, family, or a therapist for support. Talking about your feelings can be incredibly helpful. A therapist can provide a safe and non-judgmental space to work through your feelings and develop coping strategies. If you do not have access to a therapist or supportive other, writing in a journal or notebook about how your feeling can be a very empowering and useful practice.
4. Identify What's Within Your Control
When we're feeling overwhelmed, it's easy to focus on the things we can't control. Instead, try to identify what's within your control and take action. Even small steps can help you feel more in control.
5. Practice Gratitude
Practicing gratitude can help shift your focus from what's going wrong to what's going right. Take a few minutes each day to think about things you're grateful for, even if they're small (like going to the bathroom without company, or your morning cup of coffee). This can help you feel more positive and resilient.
6. Give Yourself a Break
No one else is going to consciously give yourself a break, but you! The concept of taking a vacation doesn’t always have to be literally hopping on a plane to arrive at a tropical island paradise ( oh… what I would give for some sunshine right now!). It can be taking a bath, ordering take-out instead of having to think about what to have for dinner AGAIN, or giving yourself grace to let some shit go around the house or with the kids. You can be the one giving yourself a break as opposed to feeling like a slave to the “powers that be” that are continuing to throw stuff at you.
#realtalk : Remember, it's okay to ask for help and take care of yourself.
What will you do on your “vacation”? You get to decide! Head on over to my instagram page and comment!
XO,
Deborah
