Been super overwhelmed and stressed at work recently after being put on a big project that needs a lot of work.
Felt like I was just working in circles and couldn't get anything complete.
Talked it over with my team members and came up with an action plan and suddenly it didn't seem that bad.
I'm sure there's a lesson in here somewhere like maybe some sort of to-do list method to help with this kind of thing. Or app I could build. But I haven't found it yet. If you know of something, let me know.
I actually Googled it and here's what it says about talking things over out loud:
Reduces Amygdala Activity: Naming and describing feelings moves them out of the emotional part of your brain (amygdala) into the prefrontal cortex, which handles planning and logic, calming your "fight or flight" response.
Activates Language Centers: Engaging the brain's language and meaning centers helps you analyze the situation and find solutions, rather than just reacting emotionally.
Gains Perspective: Articulating the problem helps you see it more objectively and less as an overwhelming threat, reducing the intensity of stress hormones.
Breaks Negative Loops: Talking interrupts the cycle of replaying the problem in your mind, preventing you from getting stuck in rumination.
Provides Validation & Support: Hearing a trusted person listen and validate your feelings offers comfort and reinforces that you aren't alone, making the burden feel lighter.
So maybe just journaling or writing everything out would help with overwhelm if you don't have anyone to talk to. Because our brains sure do like to make a big deal out of nothing.
Taylor “it's not that serious” Coffin
