Let’s be real—life can feel like a lot. Between running a business, managing a household, raising kids, and trying to find a moment for yourself, it’s easy to get stuck in a cycle of overwhelm. That feeling of never being able to catch up? I’ve been there.

But here’s what I’ve learned: Overwhelm isn’t just about how much is on your plate—it’s about how you approach it. 

The good news?

You don’t need a complete life overhaul to feel more in control. Small, intentional shifts can make all the difference. Here’s how you can move from overwhelmed to empowered—one simple step at a time. 

1. Shift from “I Have to Do It All” → “What Actually Matters?”

When everything feels urgent, nothing is. Instead of trying to tackle everything, pause and ask:

• What is truly essential today?
• What will move the needle forward in my life or business?
• What can wait, and what can I let go of completely?

Overwhelm thrives in a cluttered to-do list. Clarity cuts through the noise.

Try This: The Rule of Three

Each day, choose three non-negotiables—just three things that, if completed, would make you feel productive. Then actually be proud of yourself when you do accomplish them. Stop thinking about all of the other things you have to do, and simply focus, first on these three. 

Let the rest be bonus wins. 

2. Shift from “I Don’t Have Time” → “I Can Create Space”

Time isn’t just something you have—it’s something you make. And often, the biggest culprit of overwhelm isn’t lack of time but how we fill it. Here's the truth, you make time for, prioritize, and complete what is most important to you. Anything else, you will make excuses for. 

Try This: Micro-Moments of Control

• Set a 5-minute timer to declutter a space instead of waiting for “enough time” to do it all.
• Use the “one-touch rule” (respond to emails/messages right away instead of rereading them later).
• Replace mindless scrolling with 10 minutes of deep breathing, stretching, or journaling.

Small moments of control build momentum and make everything feel more manageable.

3. Shift from “I Have No Energy” → “How Can I Recharge?”

Overwhelm is exhausting, but waiting until you have energy to take action keeps you stuck. Instead, focus on creating energy through simple resets. I truly know how difficult it can be to accomplish anything when exhausted. However, that doesn't mean that we can't change this. While you may not be able to change how many hours you slept last night, you can adjust how you approach your days.

Try This: The 10-Minute Reboot

When you’re drained, don’t push through—reset. Take 10 minutes to do something intentional to shift your state:

• Step outside for fresh air.
• Play a song that lifts your mood.
• Do a quick movement break.
• Drink a glass of water and stretch.

Energy isn’t just about rest—it’s about how you restore yourself throughout the day.

4. Shift from “I’m Doing This Alone” → “I Can Ask for Support”

Whether in life or business, trying to do it all alone is a fast track to burnout. Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a strategy. TRUST ME, I know asking for help can be the scariest thing in the world, but it is so important that you learn how to. Asking for help is not a weakness, it is a strength. One that builds bonds, creates deeper connections, 

Try This: Delegate or Simplify One Thing This Week

• Can your partner take over one task?
• Can you outsource or automate something in your business?
• Can you swap perfection for done?

Giving yourself permission to ask for support is one of the most empowering shifts you can make.

5. Shift from “I’ll Feel Better When…” → “I Can Find Joy Now”

It’s easy to believe that peace comes after the work is done, but life isn’t something to get through—it’s something to live. You don’t have to wait for a perfect, stress-free day to feel joy. You can choose small moments of it right now.

Try This: One Daily Joy Practice

Each day, do one thing—no matter how small—that brings you joy:

• A cup of coffee in silence.
• A short walk outside.
• A few minutes of journaling or reading.

When you prioritize small joys, overwhelm loses its grip.

From Overwhelmed to Empowered—One Shift at a Time

You don’t have to fix everything to feel better. Just start with one shift. Clarity, space, energy, support, and joy—these small changes create a ripple effect.

Which shift do you need the most right now? Drop a comment or DM me on Instagram (@sheena_works)—I’d love to hear what resonates with you!