This tip for overcoming overwhelm is empowering. I have proven this practical principle in my life time after time. You already know this trick, but maybe you just need to hear it again.
Action is the remedy for discouragement. I just start. Sometimes I start by doing a small task or promise myself I’ll work for only twenty minutes. I feel better as soon as I take one step forward. Often once I start, the momentum carries me past the initial goal and I’m propelled forward to accomplish more than I thought I could. Any forward movement toward accomplishing my goal is empowering. No one is going to do this for me, I can do it- and the sooner I start, the better, is a good approach to overcoming overwhelm.
Many business coaches advise their clients to consistently show up. Meaning that in order to accomplish anything they must exercise the discipline to start the work. Waiting to be in ‘the mood’, or to feel inspired, or to be struck with a genius idea will not get the job done. Being faithful at plugging away will. Starting when the Muse isn’t singing in my ear. Working in spite of discouragement. Shutting out distractions that are more appealing so I can concentrate on the job. Getting one thing done. Polishing the one thing. Not making excuses.
I often think of Norman Rockwell when I’m tempted to shirk. If any type of worker could claim the necessity of being visited by the Muse, the artist surely could. But not Norman Rockwell. He painted every day. Even Christmas. He showed up daily. He was disciplined. He didn’t wait for inspiration, perfect circumstances, being in the mood or the right time. He just showed up to plan, to imagine, to search out models, to paint.
I’m not suggesting that we should work 365 days a year like Rockwell. I seek a balance, especially as a wife and mother whose responsibilities include far more than work. My point is simply that faithfulness, discipline, and hard work pay off. No amount of talent can make up for a lack of these.
