If you're anything like me, you get overwhelmed so quickly, and sometimes that feeling can completely overrule anything else going on. It doesn't matter what I'm overwhelmed about, whether it is because of being turned down for a job opportunity, school work is piling up, or if it's just as simple as getting frustrated because I can't find my keys (which tends to happen so much more than necessary). When I get overwhelmed, all I want to do is let the anger inside of me erupt; I just want to be able to feel frustrated. I mean, I have a right to feel what I feel, right? Unfortunately, while it is seemingly okay to get frustrated when we let all of those buried feelings come to the surface, we are not only hurting ourselves but those we love around us. So, when you're just having one of those days when it seems like life is just out to get you, try remembering these easy tips that might let some of that anger and frustration out in positive ways.
1. Take a walk.
When anger boils to the surface, it needs to be let out through some sort of activity. Most of us let it out through speech, and most times, that speech is harsh and mean. So, instead of putting anger into speech, put it into action. Get up from whatever you're doing, take a breath, and take a walk. Walk off all of those feelings. You'll be surprised just how much better you feel when you get some of that inward energy out.
2. Listen to soothing music.
Music scores from films, piano ballads, or even ocean and nature sounds can completely reverse angry feelings. Sometimes our overwhelmed feelings stem from the fact that we are completely distracted by the constant noise around us: a nagging boss, a complaining friend, a teacher who expects too much. Literally, anything that causes us to stress can become a constant noise in our lives if we let it. Instead of being bound to listening to the negativity, shut it out momentarily with relaxing sounds. It makes a world of a difference.
3. Meditate.
While in the spirit of trying to calm yourself, take a moment to meditate, or a couple of moments if needed. Meditation may seem strange to those who have never done it, but forcing yourself to become still and quiet is so needed in a world that is always powered "on." Meditation also can come in many forms: whether it be through prayer, through silence, or through finding yourself in ways that you wouldn't have been able to otherwise. Anger always has the upper hand when we are not in control of our feelings and our stress. Meditation can help with that if you let it.
4. Surround yourself with people who love you.
Having a "Girls' Night Out", a "Guys' Night" or even just a night in with people you love can be one of the best therapies to feeling less overwhelmed. Sitting back, watching your favorite movie with people who light up your life... Or going out and racing go-karts with those same people can affect your mood in so many positive ways. Surrounding yourself with people who bring positive energy into your life, and bring out the best possible version of yourself is how you can stay on top of feeling overwhelmed. Having a great support system is all that matters!
5. Take a "mental day" if you need to!
What I mean by "mental day" is: take a day for yourself, for your mental health. In more serious cases, when some people feel overwhelmed to the point where they seem to not be able to do anything wholeheartedly, or they do not seem fully there, what is necessary is to just take a day. This day does not equal laziness, but in fact it means that you take your mental health seriously enough to take a day to catch up on sleep you've missed, be alone for a bit to get yourself in the place you need to be, or to do something for yourself that is totally needed in order to get back on the right track.
Being overwhelmed is never a feeling that anyone enjoys. However, that little feeling can be turned around completely if you take charge and you control what happens. Don't let negativity control you, and even though it may seem easier to let anger fester and stress overwhelm you, surround yourself with positivity and live a life that you'll be proud of! Don't be afraid to tune out negativity and don't be afraid to do what's best for you. You matter, and you deserve so much more than you think!
