Most of us struggle from time to time to “hold it together” when surrounded by multiple issues, worries and problems. In these circumstances it’s not unusual to feel overwhelmed and helpless. There’s no easy solution to these feelings and each situation is different. Here are five tips for managing multiple problems at the same time.
Divide and Conquer
Make a list of the problems you are facing. Put each issue on a different page (or task list if you like using Remember the Milk like I do). Then list the tasks you need to undertake to solve your problem. If there are no tasks you can think of, then put “be patient”. Now begin tackling these tasks. Soon half the tasks needed to deal with one of your first problem will be completed and you’ll start to see progress – the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel. While not all issues will be resolved this way, breaking down your problems into small chunks, which can be isolated and conquered is a great way to move forward beyond a seemingly indomitable obstacle. This is what I did recently when I was struggling with some challenges at work, a bunch of (overwhelming) commitments to three boards I sat on and personal responsibilities on the home front. It worked like a charm.
Prioritize and be Decisive
When we’re facing pressure from multiple fronts or overwhelmed by a big problem it’s tough to ignore that issue, even if there’s nothing you can do about it. Unfortunately, that’s a surefire recipe for wasting a whole lot of time and emotional energy. While you spend hours obsessing about that performance review that seemed to go sideways, you’re neglecting other things that could improve your situation. Instead, set aside a finite amount of time to give consideration to the issue and its consequences. If you need to, call a friend or colleague to talk it out and get some catharsis. Then (unless there is a burning action you need to take) set this problem mentally aside and consciously focus on your other priorities. What are the specific tasks you need to do to move them forward? No that the first issue is not resolved, but also that other more important things need your attention. Whenever you feel your mind slipping back to the original problem – refocus.
Project a Year into the Future
The worst feeling is always moments after the mistake. That feeling of overwhelming dread (and often shame) follows you throughout the day and will frequently distract you. First step is to accept that today will likely be unproductive and generally you’ll feel terrible. C’est la vie – it happens to everyone! Tomorrow almost always feels better. Not only have you gotten some sleep, you’ve put some time and distance between yourself and the epicentre of your mistake or issue. Now think a year into the future. Is this something you expect you’ll be feeling as terrible as you are now? Or will this be water under the bridge and/or an amusing story? The more distance you can project between your current feelings and the incident in question, the better you’ll feel in present.
Exercise
Yes – you’ve heard it here before, but getting some exercise (riding your bike, walking to the local coffee shop, running, swimming, playing soccer) will release endorphins and make you feel better. I’ll also force your brain to stop obsessing about whatever issue you can’t get out of your head. It may be a temporary distraction, but it is an important distraction nonetheless.
Let it be
Be mindful. Live in the moment. Accept what doesn’t matter and what you can’t influence (don’t let it control you).