Have you ever found yourself buried in a to-do list miles long? One that you don’t really remember how it even got that long in the first place? If so, then you must know the feeling of complete overwhelm. Of being totally exhausted, physically and mentally. Of going through tough times.

If you’re like most people in today’s world, then you’ve probably felt this feeling. But even though it’s common for everyone to have so much to do, it still doesn’t shake that feeling of overwhelm. There are still times that are much tougher to get through than others. So what do we do when we reach that point where we just want to throw our hands in the air and cave?

To be honest, I have been feeling this way for a little over 2 weeks now. And at times, I really have wanted to throw my hands in the air and cave. But there are a few things that have really helped me through it and I thought I would share them with you in case you run into some tough times yourself.

A Support System

In case you don’t already have somewhat of a support system, (aka loved ones) then I highly suggest that is the first place you should start! Loved ones have helped me through every bad situation to date! At least in part. Whether it’s a family member or a good friend, I can honestly say I don’t think I’d be where I am without them.

To start, I don’t have much family. Right now my brother is my number one ally in pretty much all aspects of my life. He is my number one supporter in any venture I pursue. He thinks more highly of me than I do myself sometimes. And he is always there if I want to talk or need advice. I know for a fact I wouldn’t be where I am without him.

Then there are my friends. I don’t have many, but the ones I have mean the absolute world to me! If I ever need advice, or to hang out when I’m feeling down, or even just a reminder to chill, they’re there. And to be honest, there are times when I allow my life to get in the way of that. So it’s important to remember to make the time for my friends so they can remain such positive forces in my life.

I also have my fiancé, and I literally mean it when I say I have no clue where I would be without him. He may not know it, but sometimes I feel as if he looks at me in a higher light than himself sometimes. And it doesn’t make sense. He may be the typical male that has his moments from time to time, but without him, I wouldn’t have the confidence to keep going like I do.

A Reminder

Is there one thing in your life where just the thought of it can keep you going when you feel like you have nothing left? That’s what I mean when I say a reminder. Something that makes you feel as if your life has meaning and purpose. Something that you believe in with all your heart that can make you seem to defy the odds at times. And for me, that’s knowing what I don’t want in life.

Let me explain. I wasn’t raised in ideal circumstances. Or at least I was until my mid-teens, and then things went wrong. You see, my family has a history of drug and alcohol abuse. My father was an addict before he passed, my mother an addict as well. Even my older sister got pulled into that world of which I want no part of. But that’s exactly my point.

They are my reminder to keep going. They are my reminder that it’s too easy to just throw my hands in the air and cave. And they are my reminder of the person I know I can truly be…if I don’t give up and just keep pushing forward.

A Break

Yes I’m going to say it: When you are running yourself ragged, you need a break. Period. I know it’s hard to make yourself do, and trust me, I know. But your health and happiness are going to ultimately suffer if you don’t. And ‘break’ is defined however you want it to be!

It can be watching an episode of your favorite show while ignoring the calls, texts, and emails coming in. It can be going on a walk or run if you like. Or it can be as simple as getting the sleep you know your body needs and is deprived of. For me, it varies and can be any of these or other things.

The point is for you to take the rest/break/relaxation you need. It might not be as simple as that. And sometimes, it’s far from that simple. But the point remains the same. Make sure to make the time for yourself, because nobody else is going to come along and do it for you!

You Decide

At the end of the day, we all will face tough times for as long as we are living. It’s just an unfortunate fact. But if you don’t find a way to help yourself or find others who can help you through those tough times, then it makes it that much tougher.

So all I suggest is to give one of these a try the next time you feel yourself becoming overwhelmed and out of ideas. Heck, try ’em all! Or try none and find what works best for you instead! Just make sure you find a way to get yourself through the tough times so you can enjoy all the good times that are guaranteed to come!

And if you do have your own idea or ideas, drop ’em in the comments below! You could be the one who helps someone through their tough times without even knowing it! And if you’re looking for some other ideas on ways to make time for yourself, check out ETM’s blog here!

Thank you so very much for being a part of ETM’s community of Mommas! I encourage you to join discussions, interact with Mommas alike, and be unapologetically yourself! Until next time, I hope I’m able to help make your life as simple as could be. (:

With all my love, Brandolyn – Earth to Momma