The Science of Overwhelm & How to Beat it
What is Overwhelm?
Like most things, there is a scientific explanation for the feeling of overwhelm. When we look at the brain and someone is overwhelmed, it’s usually due to overburdened and overworked Executive Function (EF) capacities.
What are Executive Functions (EFs)?
Sometimes referred to as “the CEO” or “conductor” of the brain, EFs are high-level cognitive processes that enable people to quickly process and retain information. These processes take place mainly in the prefrontal part of the frontal lobe.
EFs receive incoming sensory input and information from other parts of the brain. Like an orchestra, the brain combines these functions to play a symphony.
EFs allow us to organize and manage our daily lives, make decisions, focus on important things, and self-monitor our thoughts while regulating our emotions and behaviors.
Executive Dysfunction = Overwhelm
Ever found yourself staring at a to-do list, paralyzed by the sheer weight of tasks? That feeling of overwhelm is real, and it often stems from Executive Dysfunction, a breakdown in the ability to tackle daily challenges.
It’s not just linked to disorders like ADHD and autism; it can affect anyone dealing with time, emotional, information, or decision overwhelm.
If you’ve felt this weight lately, you’re not alone.
The 4 Types of Overwhelm
- Time Overwhelm: “I don’t have enough time.”
- Emotional Overwhelm: “This feels like it’s too much.”
- Information Overwhelm: “I can’t process all of this info.”
- Decision Overwhelm: “Too many decisions to make. What if I make the wrong one?”
The 1-2-3 Framework for Managing Overwhelm
✨ PROJECT: Choose one significant project for the month that aligns with your goals. For me, it’s launching “Ambition Alcove: The Masterclass.”
✨ TO-DOS: Break down the project into bite-sized tasks. Aim to tackle only two in a day, dedicating one hour to each. After each hour, take a break – maybe a walk to clear your mind.
✨ MEETINGS: Limit your daily meetings to a maximum of three hours. This ensures progress while avoiding emotional and informational overwhelm. Unless your job is purely meeting-centric, constant talking about work won’t move it forward.
This framework has been my secret weapon, allowing me to ship something significant every month. It keeps me focused, efficient, and, most importantly, prevents overwhelm.
If you are ready to take your Ambition to the next level, here are 3 ways I can support you.
Library Lounge
| A resource hub for ambitious entrepreneurs looking to start, grow, or scale their businesses and build the careers of their dreams. https://marielleagency.com/shop/. |
Business Consulting
| Our consulting services not only fine-tune your strategies and operations but also cultivate a resilient and growth-oriented mindset. Together, let’s conquer challenges, unleash potential, and set the stage for a year of unprecedented success! Reach out to this email: |
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