How to make hard tasks easier to support our mental wellbeing
Life has a way of throwing curveballs at us, doesn't it? You know that phrase,life be "lifeing". I think we all feel that at times. It's normal. But it doesn't have to completely knock us off our feet. Today I want to discuss some practical ways we can turn what can seem like huge, daunting challenges into speed bumps that may slow us down but don't change our direction or our path.
First things first, feeling that things are daunting happens more often than you think. Even the leaders and experts that you admire still get nervous, or feel anxious or uncertain or overwhelmed at times. Some of history's most epic triumphs were born out of initial "oh-my-goodness-what-have-I-gotten-myself-into" moments. So give yourself some grace and focus on self compassion whenever you feel like you're underwater or you're in too deep.
Take a deep breath. Then, focus on taking that big challening situation and break it down into smaller, manageable chunks. This way, you can focus on one chunk at a time, gradually building momentum and confidence along the way. Celebrate each small win, this is what gives you the boost you need to move forward.
Visualiation is a tool you can try using. I know it might sound weird but hear me out. Take a moment to visualize yourself successfully tackling the daunting task. Close your eyes and imagine you've just overcome the challenge. How does it feel? How has your body reacted? Do you feel less tense, are you smiling, do your limbs feel relaxed? Really try be specific and completely embody the experieince of having already overcome the challenge. Visualize and feel the success and the accomplishment. Maybe even give yourself a pat on the back as early celebration. This visualization technique can help boost your confidence and motivate you to get to the other side of the task or situation.
Shift your mindset from seeing the situation as a roadblock that ends the journey to viewing it as an opportunity for growth and learning. Accept that mistakes and setbacks are a natural part of the process. You might know exatly what to do and that's okay. Get resourceful and reach out to others for help whether colleagues, mentors, friends and family or professionals depending on the situation. They can offer advice, support and a different perspectove, all of which can help you in dealing with the challenge. As you attempt each chunk of the situation, each hurdle you overcome brings you one step closer to success. Enjoy the process of failing and learning. Keep a list of lessons you learn a long the way and this may be the basis of a future best seller book to come! Who knows?
When facing something daunting, always remember to prioritize self-care. Usually this is the last thing we want to do and we throw ourselves at the problem head first. But this can drain our energy, our peace and our joy, especially when we're not making a lot of headway. So make sure to take quiet time whether meditation, mindfulness or just solitude to still your mind, remind yourself that your wellness is a priority and checkin to see what you may need in that moment. If your social and mental battery allows, spending time with others as connection and community can be very nourshing and replenishing during stressful or draining times. Also move your body in a way you enjoy such as dancing, kick boxing or wakling, which all serve as ways to release stress as well as increase endorphins and give yourself a welcome distraction.
Remember, progress is not always linear. Some days you'll make significant strides, while others may feel like ten steps backward. Acknowledge your overwhelm but also acknowledge your progress as you make headway one chunk at a time. Journal or document all your small wins and read them whenever you feel discouraged. Your capabilities are more than you think. You've got this!
