Take Control: Time Management Tips for When You're Overwhelmed

Let’s be honest—some days feel like there’s too much to do and not enough time to do it. Whether it’s managing the kids, work, chores, or personal time, life can get incredibly busy and stressful. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and there are simple strategies to help you regain control of your time.

Acknowledge That You’re Overwhelmed

It’s okay to admit that you’re feeling overwhelmed. Many of us think we should have everything together, but here’s the truth: no one does. Even the busiest and most successful people have days where they feel like they can’t keep up. Recognizing this is the first step to managing your time more effectively.

Take a moment to identify what’s really causing you to feel overwhelmed. Is it the sheer volume of tasks? Or is it the pressure to meet certain expectations? Understanding the root cause can provide clarity and help you make progress.

Get It All Out of Your Head

When your to-do list feels overwhelming, start with a brain dump. Write down everything you need to do—no matter how big or small—on paper, in your phone, or wherever works best for you. This exercise isn’t about organization; it’s about clearing mental clutter.

Once you’ve listed everything, start categorizing. What absolutely needs to be done today? What can wait? What can you delegate? And what can you let go of entirely?

Breaking down your tasks into smaller, more manageable pieces helps reduce the feeling of chaos. For example, instead of writing “clean the house,” write specific tasks like “vacuum the living room” or “do a load of laundry.” Smaller tasks are less daunting and give you a boost of accomplishment with each one you complete.

Prioritize Like a Pro

Ask yourself, “What has to get done today, and what can I leave for tomorrow?” Focus on the most important things that need your attention. And remember, it’s okay if everything isn’t perfect.

Perfectionism can be a major roadblock. Trying to do everything perfectly will only leave you more stressed. Instead, aim for progress, not perfection. Would you rather finish something that’s “good enough,” or leave it unfinished because you were chasing perfection? Letting go of an all-or-nothing mindset can be incredibly freeing.

Set Realistic Expectations

There are only so many hours in a day, and no one can do it all. Be kind to yourself and accept that it’s okay to leave some things undone. Prioritize what truly matters and give yourself permission to let go of less important tasks.

Don’t hesitate to ask for help. Whether it’s delegating at work, asking family members to pitch in with chores, or hiring outside help if possible, remember that you don’t have to carry the load all by yourself. People are often more willing to help than we might realize.

Take Care of Yourself

Self-care is essential, even when life feels overwhelming. It doesn’t have to be elaborate or time-consuming. Sometimes, taking just a few minutes to reset can make a huge difference. Sit down with a cup of coffee, go for a quick walk, or spend a few extra minutes on your skincare routine. These small moments of self-care can help you recharge and tackle the rest of your day with renewed energy.

If you’re short on time, try combining self-care with other tasks. Listen to your favorite podcast while cooking dinner or do a few stretches while waiting for your coffee to brew. The goal is to give yourself a moment to breathe and regroup.

Progress, Not Perfection

At the end of the day, managing your time isn’t about doing it all—it’s about prioritizing what matters most. Recognize your limits, set realistic goals, and take care of yourself along the way. Remember, you’re doing the best you can, and that’s more than enough.

Life will always have its overwhelming moments, but with these strategies, you can approach them with confidence and clarity to take control of your time.

—Jessica