Too Much Input

Have you ever felt that you just have too much going on inside your head? I have too much that I am thinking about right now. Too many projects; a family reunion to plan, pets to feed and walk, repainting the house, fixing our roof, helping family with health issues, participating in my local chapter of the International Coach Federation, my job, my kids, my family, etc.
At the same time, I am receiving too many requests; my daughter wants a play date, my son wants to see a movie, my temple needs food for their hunger drive, my client needs a letter of recommendation, the children’s babysitter needs time off. Can I carpool, can I bake sale, can I just jump off this crazy merry go round? I want to do it all and deliver for everyone and every organization that means something to me and I know I can’t. I just can’t get people to stop asking me!
Today I met my breaking point. Too much input and not enough time for all the output I am responsible for. I felt like Lucy and Ethel at the request conveyor belt, trying to catch up, but the requests kept coming. I felt my chest tighten and my head get hot. Is this an anxiety attack? Maybe I’ll have a heart attack and then they will put me in the hospital and I will be able to get some rest? One can only hope.
Somehow we have to figure out the one aspect of life that is putting us over the edge. One thing, that if we were to let it go, we would be able to breathe. Yes, I will consider that as soon as I get a minute to think.
Do you think that you are “doing” too much?
Take this free self quiz to find out: http://jameetenzer.com/take-a-self-quiz/
Coach Me Quick Tips For Less Input:
1.I know it is too late for this advice, but try to look ahead and pace yourself when it comes to commitments. If you are planning a big event next spring, let someone else Chair the school silent auction.
2.Look ahead and see when the action will stop. It may not be for a month or two, but at some point, you will notice more space in your calendar. Protect that space now. Resist the temptation to fill it up with commitments and you will thank yourself later.
3.Let go of some small commitments that don’t have to happen right now. Can you get take out more often for dinner? Can you ask a friend to pick up your kids at school one day each week? How can you create space for yourself?
4.Identify the one item that is really putting you over the edge. If you can delay it or delegate it, do so now! If you cannot delay or delegate, plow ahead, but acknowledge yourself for your extra efforts. Remember that your best is not only good enough, but great!