We’ve all been there—overwhelmed, overstimulated, overextended, just over it.  Sometimes the load gradually becomes too heavy, and sometimes it’s more acute.  What do you do when it’s all too much? 

Recognize what you’re feeling and take a beat.  This could mean switching gears to a different project or taking the afternoon off.  It may even just be a quick moment of peace behind a closed door.  Take the time that you have, and take a step back. 

Pray.  Turn your worry and anxiety into prayer and cast your burdens upon Him.  If you’re not even sure what to pray about, start by taking some time to be still and dwell in the presence of the Lord.  If there’s no time to be still, then pray through the chaos. 

Remove the clutter.  When our lives are filled with clutter, metaphorical or literal, we are distracted by the mess and cannot focus on the task at hand.  Remove any unnecessary distractions, simplify, and streamline. 

Move your body.  If you can, get outside and go for a walk.  There is something about being surrounded by God’s creation that helps clear your mind and calm your spirit. 

Evaluate.  Do you need to ask for help or delegate something to your team?   It’s okay to ask for help when you need it.  Reach out to someone in your circle and communicate your need to them.  

We all get overwhelmed, and sometimes it’s hard to see things clearly in the thick of it.  Taking a step back can help put things in perspective and remind us that we aren’t alone.  The next time that it all feels like too much, remember this passage from Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”