It's Okay if You're Already Overwhelmed

Finding balance amidst the chaos

If the word “resolutions” makes you cringe, this post is for you. A certain dread gradually seeps into the excitement of the new year. Before you know it, single digits turn into double, and then the calendar flips to a fresh month. We rack our brains before that change, trying to determine if we can call the new year’s start a good or lousy beginning.

I know it’s easier said than done, as productivity and hustle culture are ingrained in our society, but let’s try to remove this self-imposed pressure. Take off one layer at a time and exhale deeply with each effort. Let nature do its thing and follow suit; slow growth is better than no growth.

Image via Social Squares

We’re only a few days into the new year, and I already feel anxiety creeping in. So much promise is in the air, yet so much is still uncertain. Everyone is focused on bettering their health, income, and self—while I’m over here trying to breathe through the days.

But I remind myself, this year is not a race. It’s not about who finishes it with the most items checked off their to-do list. In fact, I’m tired of treating life like it’s one big list.

The energy of a fresh start, filled with new opportunities and possibilities, can be overwhelming. There are so many paths to take, and if you’re indecisive like me, choosing can be challenging.

Just know you’re not alone.

No one can predict the future, and life can’t be mapped out. We’re all flying blind and just doing the best we can.

Remember that change doesn’t happen overnight; it’s a continual process. Some days, you’ll burst with energy; on others, you’ll want to lie low and cling to your bed. What’s important is that you show up and give your best effort, even if that’s minimal (just make sure you’re not self-sabotaging).

There is no wrong or right way to start the new year. Time is fleeting, yet there is still plenty of it. The race against it is only with yourself, as everyone else follows their own clock.

Slow down and breathe. Take it day by day, hour by hour, if you need to. Only you can decide where to go from here and which mindset (positive or negative) to adopt.

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