Over the last few weeks, I’ve had countless conversations with clients—current and past—about the state of the world. Airplane crashes, ICE raids, protests, political upheaval, job instability, the unpredictable stock market—all on top of the everyday stress we’re already juggling.
It’s a lot. And many of us are feeling overwhelmed, powerless, and unsure of what we can do to help. We want to take care of the people we love, our communities, but we’re left wondering: How do we even begin when it feels like everything is falling apart?
Here’s the thing: You can find your footing in the middle of chaos. You can turn your frustration and fear into purposeful action. It’s all about how you anchor yourself and refocus.
Here’s what you need to do:
4 Steps to Take When Everything Feels Overwhelming
1. Hit Pause.
Stop. Just for a moment. In a world that never slows down, you must give yourself permission to hit pause. Take a deep breath, step away from the noise, and clear your head. You can’t solve everything right now, but you can regain control of your energy and mind. Use this moment to center yourself.
2. Feel What You Feel.
Are you frustrated? Anxious? Scared? Good. Acknowledge those emotions. Too often, we bury our feelings, thinking it will make us stronger. But real strength comes from feeling what’s real. Honor your emotions, process them, and then get back into action—clearer, stronger, and with purpose.
3. Get Balanced.
If you’re trapped in an echo chamber, now’s the time to break out. Seek new perspectives, listen to voices that challenge your own. You don’t need to change your beliefs, but gaining balance will help you stay grounded in times of uncertainty. Expanding your view is what keeps you from shrinking in the face of conflict.
4. Take Care of Yourself—No, Really.
We overwork, overthink, overdo. And when we’re burned out, we become less effective—not just for ourselves, but for the world. You’re not doing anyone any good by running on empty. Take 10 minutes to breathe. Get outside. Refill your tank so you can show up with clarity and focus. It’s not selfish; it’s necessary.
And remember, think about your unique talents.
What do you bring to the table? How can you use your skills and gifts to make a difference right now? Whether it’s through a conversation, a kind gesture, or supporting a cause you believe in, the small steps you take do matter. Every action has a ripple effect—and together, our small actions can create change.
