Sometimes even the simple things in life feel like too much.

Your to-do list keeps growing. People need things from you. You’re thinking about what needs to happen today, what you didn’t get done yesterday, and what’s waiting for you tomorrow.

And sometimes it goes beyond being busy. You’re exhausted. You’re struggling. Even getting out of bed, answering the email, making the phone call, or doing something you normally wouldn’t think twice about can feel like a lot.

When you’re in that state, being told to “prioritize better” isn’t always helpful.

Sometimes you need to stop looking at everything in front of you and ask a much smaller question:

What’s the smallest, yet meaningful next step I can take?

That might mean handling something important at work. It might mean making the call you’ve been avoiding. Or it might simply mean putting your feet on the floor, taking a shower, eating something, or getting outside.

In this episode, I talk about why focusing on everything at once makes it easier to get stuck, how to narrow your focus when life feels overwhelming, and why small actions matter more than we give them credit for.

You don’t have to solve everything today.

Figure out the next meaningful thing you can do. Do that. Then let it stack.

Want help working through a challenge in your life, career, or business? Learn more about our 1-on-1 mentoring at artofcoaching.com/mentoring.

My new book, The Anti-Hero Advantage, is for anyone tired of one-size-fits-all advice about leadership, communication, and influence. Learn more and order your copy at theantiheroadvantage.com.

For more tools, events, and resources from Art of Coaching, visit artofcoaching.com.

 

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