Stress and Overwhelm: Strategy to Practice Now

Below is Brené Brown’s definition of overwhelm and the difference between that and stress (Read full article here).
 
“Overwhelm means an extreme level of stress and emotional and or cognitive intensity to the point of feeling unable to function,” Brown says. “So I think the big difference is we can function in stress, we really can't function in overwhelm.”
 
One strategy to practice when experiencing stress is to take a “Purposeful Pause.” It is intentional and provides a brief moment of grounding which can recharge you and prevent overwhelm.
 
Purposeful Pause Strategies:

• Take a short walk

• Engage in deep breathing exercises

• Feel your feet on the ground and notice each part of your body

• Close your eyes and focus on the “why” you are doing your work

• Stand up and stretch

• Eat lunch or a snack away from your work space

• Smile and laugh!

• Take a short nap

• Listen to your favorite song

• Create your own…whatever works for you!

 
Practice and share these strategies with your colleagues and the young people in your programs!