3 Actionable Steps to Reduce Overwhelm

Lately, I've been hearing from clients and colleagues that they're feeling stressed and overwhelmed. With year-end goals looming and a to-do list that never seems to get shorter, many are struggling to find focus and finish the year strong. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.

Overwhelm often stems from trying to do too much without a clear focus on what truly matters. Drawing on the principles of The One Thing and the power of intentionality, here are three actionable steps to help cut through the chaos, find clarity, and regain control:

1. Identify Your One Thing

Ask yourself: What’s the one thing I can do, such that by doing it, everything else will be easier or unnecessary? This question helps you find the highest-priority task that will drive the most significant results. Resist the urge to multitask and focus on this one priority daily. It’s amazing how simplifying can amplify progress.

2. Review and Refine Your Commitments

Take a moment to look at your calendar, to-do list, and even your inbox. What tasks or commitments are not aligned with your top priorities? Often, we say "yes" out of habit or a desire to please, but not every “yes” serves our greater goals. Practice saying "no" or "not right now" to items that don’t support your focus. By doing so, you’ll clear space for what truly matters.

3. Build in Time for Reflection

Overwhelm often blocks our ability to see clearly. Schedule short, daily check-ins with yourself to assess what’s working and what’s not; take three minutes to walk away from your desk and take some deep breaths; think about something that’s happened in your day that you’re grateful for. Are you investing your time on the things that move the needle? A few minutes of reflection can help you make small adjustments that keep you on track, preventing minor stresses from building into major burnout.

The end of the year doesn’t have to be a sprint to the finish line. By focusing on refining your priorities, and taking time to reflect, you can finish the year feeling accomplished and at ease—without the overwhelm. Remember, productivity isn’t about doing more; it’s about doing what matters most.