Feeling The Pressures Of Overcommitment

Three Tips to Stay Energized

A business woman breathes in fresh air on a rooftop

Insider

Contributing Writer

I recently slipped back into some bad habits of overcommitting, that held me captive for a bit. As we head into a season of food, fun and festivities, it’s important to remember to take things in carefully, physically, and mentally.

Last month I had to put myself on a “yes” diet. No more filling my plate with saying yes to things that aren’t in alignment with what’s best for me, my family, or my lifestyle. I had a large helping of overcommitments on my plate and it weighed me down. I noticed I became reactive instead of proactive, and I wasn’t enjoying the things I had said “yes” to. I decided to go on a diet and cut some things out of my life.

Maybe you’ve felt that too. This time of the year can be exciting and stressful. Organizations, fundraisers, and activities have ramped up needing volunteers, donations, and commitments to hit their goals, help those in need, and to serve on top of family commitments, and--oh yeah, you probably have a job too!

Fortunately, I was able to make the pivot and you can too.

Here are 3 simple ways to stay energized when you feel the pressure of overcommitment creeping up.

REFLECT:

When did you commit to this and why?
Choosing to say yes to something in the future because you think you have time later is a trap. There will always be something on your calendar begging for your attention.
If you aren’t prepared to say yes as if it would begin tomorrow, then it’s a clear no. The things you’re passionate about will be a no-brainer to say yes to and you’ll want to do them right away.

RESET:

Examine your core values. I spend a lot of time on this with clients to make sure decisions are in alignment with who they say they want to be.
What are your most important priorities in life? Will this new position, activity, or program enhance your priorities in life or hinder them? For a deeper dive on this I’ve developed a Change Cycle tool to help with this – reply to me and I’ll send you a copy of it.
Decisions become clearer when you are in alignment of your core values and priorities.

RECHARGE:

Recognize that if you say no, you’re doing the program, activity, or organization a favor by saying no when you’re not 100% committed to it.
When you know it’s not the right thing for you and pass on it, the opportunity opens for someone who’s eager to serve. You’ve helped them more with your no than you would have with a half-hearted yes.
Once you’ve lightened the load and only committed to the things you care most about, you’ll serve at a deeper level and feel more connected to your cause or position.

When I recently let go of a role that I enjoyed but couldn’t fully commit to, I felt I had lost 15 lbs. That was the fastest diet I’d ever been on, and it was done tastefully. I’ll still be able to help the cause, support the team, and be able to be more involved at a different level.

What will you take off your plate this year to lighten your load and stay energized?