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How To Cope When Your Never-ending To Do list Becomes Overwhelming


Modern life means that for many of us we are juggling numerous demands at work, home or both. How we respond to these demands can vary from person to person and according to individual situations, other life events and the support available. What is clear though is that continuing effort to fulfil endless tasks on an ongoing basis can become unsustainable, leading to anxiety, overwhelm and burnout. This has a negative impact on the wellbeing of a person and can also reduce the amount and quality of tasks completed.


While it may not always be possible to change the demands on you, there may be steps you can take to manage how you respond to and deal with these demands and the impact they have on you. In doing so you can feel more in control of the situation, manage things more effectively and improve your overall wellbeing.


Here are some ideas for how to cope when the overwhelm becomes too much.


Write a to do list

Writing a to do list means you have everything written down in one place and helps to stop thoughts about what you need to do from racing around in your head. Include everything that needs to be done but importantly consider the following when writing your list.

Ensure your list is realistic and achievable

While lists can be great organisational tools, as mentioned above, an acceptance that a list may not be completed is important in order to avoid feelings of failure. Viewing the list as a work in progress, an ongoing document that items can be both added to or ticked off from could help with this. Highlighters or other markers can help to distinguish items of different importance.

Focus on one thing at a time

You may not have to do this on your own

Time management

Plan your time out so you have a realistic idea of how to fit things in but remember to be flexible and adaptable if things change throughout the day. Remember to plan breaks. Although this takes time out from getting things done, it is an important part of self care and can help lead to more productive and focused work.

Self care and boundaries

Make a list


Say 'no' sometimes

Recognise what you have

done and appreciate yourself!

Make time for self-care

Ask for help

Plan your time and prioritise


These are just some ideas to consider if you are feeling overwhelmed with all you have to do and of course not everything applies or is possible in all situations. It's about finding ways that work for you. Making achievable and realistic plans and breaking things down can make them feel less overwhelming and give a sense of control back, as well as satisfaction when completing things. Remembering that you are just one person and that there is always a limit to what any person can do is important, as well as remembering to appreciate the things you do rather than always focusing on the things that don't get done.


Making some time for things you enjoy and want to do rather than the things you have to do is good for your overall wellbeing and could actually result in more productive, focused time spent on tasks that have to be done. Turning the negative feelings of panic and overwhelm into positive, practical ways to get things done could be a real help. Last, but definitely not least, remember you are a person and no matter how much is expected of you, your health and happiness are important too.



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jophillips821

Welcome to my first blog on jophillipscounselling.com - the website I created to promote and inform people about my private counselling practice. This first post is really just a general introduction to what I do and how I might be able to help you.


Would you like to talk to someone in a safe, confidential space where you will be listened to, valued and empathised with? Would you like to be able to speak to someone without the worry of being judged for your thoughts and feelings?


Are you struggling to deal with or make sense of your thoughts and feelings or is there a particular issue or situation you are having difficulty coping with?


Do you feel you need some support but aren't sure who to turn to?




I may be able to help you


I can offer counselling support through individual sessions in person, via telephone or zoom.


I offer a range of days and times to suit your needs, including some evening and weekend appointments.


I can offer support for a number of issues, including but not limited to bereavement, pregnancy-related difficulties, depression, anxiety and low self-esteem.


I work with both male and female adult clients and have experience working with different ages.


I work in a person-centred way which means that you have control over your therapy and healing while at the same time having my full support as you work through your difficulties or issues.


I can offer you a safe space to explore and make sense of your emotions and difficulties, and my support as you as find ways to cope. I will give you my full attention, value you what say and never judge. I will be honest and genuine with you so that we can develop a trusting counselling relationship.


If you feel that I might be able to help you or you would like to find out more then please have a look around my site where you will further information about my journey into counselling, my prices, the counselling approach I use, details of how to contact me and the services I offer. If you would like to contact me with any questions you might have my details are:


Jo Phillips

Tel: 07910322851

Email: jophillips821@yahoo.com


Thank you for taking the time to read this brief introduction to what I do. If you would like to talk to me about how I might be able to help you I would love to hear from you!







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