How to Turn Those Challenges Into Opportunities
Feeling overwhelmed is something we all experience at times. It’s that moment when the weight of responsibilities and challenges seems too much to bear. Yet, within that very struggle lies the seed of empowerment.
Two years ago, I was in a bad way. I was working as the CEO of a charity that I loved and felt real passion for. But something wasn’t right. I had a constant headache caused by being pulled in too many directions at once, and spent most weekends nursing a migraine.
Quite frankly, I was overwhelmed.
Understanding Overwhelm
Overwhelm often stems from trying to do too much or facing unexpected challenges. As a certified Coach, I recognised that these feelings I had were a natural response to stress. Now, I could have buried my head in the sand, but instead of seeing overwhelm as a dead end, I considered it as a signal to pause and reassess my priorities.
I asked for a sabbatical and spent the next three months ‘doing me’. I got out of my own way and started to act as the woman I was always meant to be. By the end of that time off, I knew that what I’d found was too precious to lose. So I bit the bullet and resigned.
The Shift to Empowerment
Empowerment begins with a change in mindset. By acknowledging your feelings and accepting that it’s okay to seek help, you pave the way to take control. Now, you may not be able to take any time off, but there’s always something you can do to start building confidence and momentum.
You can start by breaking down your tasks into smaller, manageable steps. And celebrate each small win – these victories are the evidence that you’ll need to fall back on if/when times get hard.
Practical Steps to Transform
- Prioritise and Simplify – List your tasks and focus on the most important ones first. Eliminate or delegate where possible.
- Set Boundaries – Know your limits and say ‘no’ when needed. Protecting your time is key to reducing overwhelm.
- Seek Support – Whether it’s a mentor, colleague, friend – or a coach, like me – sharing your burden can lighten the load and offer fresh insights.
- Reflect and Recharge – Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge. This could be as simple as a walk in the park or a few minutes of quiet reflection. My own way of giving back to myself is to spend a few minutes every morning journaling. It keeps me focused and reminds me why I’m doing what I’m doing.
A Personal Note
Over the past two years I’ve had the privilege of working with some amazing people, helping them to join the dots and connect deeply into their lives and purpose. The change in them (and me!) has been transformational.
In spite of all the changes, I’ve never stepped far away from the Charity Sector. It’s just that my emphasis has changed. Now, rather than leading one particular charity as its CEO, I help other charity leaders to reach their goals and transform their own missions. Whether it’s helping them to create a brand new strategy, strengthen their financial position through dynamic fundraising, or building their confidence through executive coaching.
I only wish that, when I was struggling, I’d had the toolkit at my fingertips that I’ve lovingly developed over the last two years. It would, undoubtedly, have stopped me from toppling into overwhelm.
The Transformation
Transforming overwhelm into empowerment is not an overnight process. It requires patience, self-compassion, and practical strategies. By shifting your perspective and taking one step at a time, you can turn those moments of stress into a launchpad for growth. Your potential is immense, and each day is a new chance to reclaim control and create the future you envision.
If you’d like me to help with that, reach out to me here and let’s book in a free Discovery Call to discuss what you need and how I may be able to fill the gap. Contact me here.
And don’t forget to check out my LinkedIn page here and my Instagram page here. They’re both packed with tips and tricks to help you overcome your own overwhelm.