May 23

Overcoming Overwhelm

Overcoming Overwhelm

 

 Do you ever feel overwhelmed with the demands and expectations of your everyday life? I have a hard time admitting this, but I have been feeling this way lately. My oldest is graduating from high school. I hadn’t realized how many expectations are placed on the kids as well as the parents at this transitional time. All of the school events for seniors, the ceremony, party and then the big open house for everyone we know. There is so much to do, so much to prepare, not to mention the emotional stress and upheaval of this major rite of passage. 

My enjoyment of this time seems to be weighed down by all of the demands and expectations of what parents are supposed to do for their kids, and for friends and family. It was seeming like I had very little choice or say in what I do, and all of my tasks had “have to” added in front of each item. On top of that all of my work tasks and projects, which I normally enjoy, started being squeezed by not having enough time causing them to be just another chore that I have to get done. 

I noticed that my daily practices that I have been doing for many years, began to slip by the wayside. My to-do lists continued to grow, crowding out everything else, like the Creeping Charlie in my garden. The things that I did just for me and my own nurturing and fulfillment became a faint memory. As my overwhelm continued to grow along with my to-do list, I felt myself starting to shut down. Not wanting to do anything. No energy. No motivation. If only there was a hole I could just crawl into and hide.

As a result of this shut down, my business began to decrease. Then of course money got tight, causing even more stress and overwhelm. A vicious cycle of stress, overwhelm, shutting down and hiding became my new norm. I looked to comfort foods to help me feel better, only to realize that those foods (sugars, breads, etc.) made me feel worse, sucking my energy, darkening my mood, and making my body hurt. I was completely out of the flow that I had been enjoying for so long. I knew that something had to change, but what could I do?

I decided to shift this pattern by taking one little step. My first little step was to write in my journal. I had been journaling every night prior to this lapse, but now it had been a month since I had written anything. I sat and wrote how I was feeling and asked for help from my angels to get past this. My journaling turned into a meditation, connecting with my soul and my spiritual support. The feeling I received in this space reminded me of returning home after a long and difficult journey. Ahhh, it’s good to me home!

I went to sleep and was filled with lovely, happy dreams. I woke feeling energized and hopeful. From the moment I got out of bed, I had a song in my head that was inspiring and uplifting. I couldn’t wait to start my day, and held the intention of efficiently and easily getting items checked off of my list. I definitely felt a shift in my energy, my attitude, my mood, and my perception. 

I could beat myself up for letting this slump get out of control for so long. “How could I have let that happen? I know better than that.” But rather then letting those negative and judgmental statements drag me down, I chose to be grateful for this clear illustration and lesson about the importance of daily spiritual practice. This has shown me definitively how doing one little positive action can profoundly effect everything else in my life. It really does make a difference!

What one small positive step can you take? 

Make a point to do something positive for yourself everyday. And during the times we you are stressed and overwhelmed, it is even more important to make the time to do it. You’ll be amazed what a difference it can make in your life! I know it will take more than that one step, but taking one step at a time is forward progress. I can do it and so can you!

Blessings and light to you,
Kris

If you would like help conquering your own stress and overwhelm, or to discuss your healing needs and how I can help, click this button to schedule a free “Let’s Connect” Call, and take your first step!    Schedule free call

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  1. Those years are behind me now but that is not to say that I don’t get caught up in the goings on of my daughters and grandchildren. That said, I use some Louise Hay affirmations every night as I drift off to sleep and that helps me to quiet my mind and wake up less stressed.

  2. I love to write so when I started to come into my own more spiritually I started journaling, it really helped me to connect within. Now I take the time each day to do something, no matter how small, that works for me to lead a more positive balanced life.

    1. Thanks for sharing, Heather! Journaling is such a powerful way to connect and process. It really has worked for me! 🙂

  3. My friend Paul Boynton wrote a book called “Begin With Yes” about the power of taking one small step. It’s a message lots of people need to hear. Thanks for sharing.

  4. I’ve been in a slump myself and find that sitting outside in nature always lifts my spirits. Congrats on the HS graduation!

    1. I need to get out in nature more. It really is healing! Nice to know others have been feeling the same way. Sometimes a slump is necessary as well…gathering energy for the next chapter! 🙂

  5. I also have a daughter graduating from high school next month and this time is full of transition and change. I am grateful for my self-nurturing practices that keep me connected to myself in the process and give me a reserve when I give more than I had to give. I am spending time meditating, taking walks, gardening and having fun with my daughter when we can. Thank you for this important reminder that choice is a transformational tool for overwhelm.

  6. I am so proud of you, Kris! Personal life transitions can be difficult, but I love that you are making your way back. =)

  7. Been there done and know all too well how my families needs, wants ans demands began to push my needs and desires away. One step at a time for self-care & self-love. It is possible for it all. Xoxo

  8. Transitions are hard and having what sounds like so many requirements thrust on you is exhausting! Journals are so amazing I sometimes wonder how I managed without for so many years! Taking good care of ourselves is vital – a great reminder <3

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About the Author

Kris Groth is a spiritual mentor, energy healer, and bestselling author of Soul-iloquy: A Novel of Healing, Soul Connection & Passion. She is passionate about helping people connect more deeply to their own truth, to promote healing, restore balance to the body, mind, heart & soul, and live a soul-connected life. Kris serves clients around the world through her healing and spiritual mentoring sessions, and powerful guided sound healing meditations.

Kris Groth

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