Life can be overwhelming.

I know. That’s why you haven’t heard from me since December 1. Why? Because I had to take a little time to practice what I preach. And unfortunately, it’s taking longer than anticipated to get on track. I’ll talk about it more soon, here and on my podcast (top 8% in the world last year, thanks to you.)

You certainly understand what I mean when I say it’s easy to feel like you’re drowning in responsibilities and commitments. But if you’re feeling like you’re on the brink of burning out, rusting out, flaming out, or dropping out—of anything—it’s essential to take a step back and prioritize your mental and emotional well-being.

According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 1 in 5 adults in the United States experiences mental illness in a given year. The COVID-19 pandemic has only added to the stress and pressure of everyday life, with many people feeling isolated, anxious, and uncertain about the future. (We don’t seem to be outgrowing the impact of that stinkin’ pandemic, huh?) Therefore, it’s crucial to prioritize self-care to prevent overload syndrome and its effects on your mental and emotional health.

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So, how can you overcome overload syndrome and prioritize self-care?

Here are three practical steps to follow:

Practice mindfulness: Take a few minutes each day to focus on your breath and clear your mind. Whether through meditation, yoga, prayer, or simply walking outside, practicing mindfulness can help you reduce stress and stay focused.
Set boundaries: Learn to say no to commitments that don’t align with your priorities or bring you joy. Set limits on your work hours, and prioritize time for rest and relaxation. Only you can make this decision. So don’t make excuses.
Connect with others: Make time for the people in your life who bring you happiness and support. Whether it’s a phone call, video chat, or meeting in person, connecting with others can help reduce feelings of isolation and improve your overall well-being. I cannot stress this need enough in your life.
Take care of your physical health: Make sure to eat healthily, exercise regularly, and get enough sleep. Your physical health is closely linked to your mental and emotional health, so prioritize taking care of your body. You only have one!

Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. By prioritizing self-care, you’ll be better equipped to handle the challenges that come your way and prevent overload syndrome from taking over your life. And don’t forget to notice the needs of the people in your life as well. Everyone needs connection and interaction to remain healthy. So if you want to remove your aloneness, start by helping others.

So I return from a few weeks off to challenge you to make self-care a priority in your life. Start with these three practical steps, and remember that taking care of your mental and emotional well-being is just as important as taking care of your physical health. Let’s work together to build a happier, healthier world. What can you lose?

Sources:

National Institute of Mental Health. (2021). Mental Illness. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics/mental-illness.shtml

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Timothy Eldred is a writer, speaker, and friendly disruptor of the status quo on a mission to end aloneness and help people live with authenticity. @timothyeldred

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