Finding Calm in Overwhelm: Routines, Gratitude and Perspective

I don’t know if it's the end-of-summer vibes, that back-to-school feeling, or the crazy realization that we’re already in the final quarter of the year--but all of it has my head spinning a little. 

Not too long ago, we got back from a family visit in California. It was really nice to step away from the hustle and bustle of work, routines and schedules. But when life is busy and you come home from being away, it’s a real wake-up call trying to get back into the swing of things. You’d think it would be fairly simple to just pick back up your routine, catch up, and move forward.

Well…for me, this time it was more like a stumble, then falling flat on my face, then getting back up--only to almost fall again. Everything has felt pretty overwhelming the last couple of weeks. 

All that to say, it reminded me of why I always return to structure and routines. Without them, I’d be completely lost. Here are a few things that I’ve been leaning on lately when everything feels a bit out of control:

#1 - Lean Into Structure and Routine

Now, I know this advice isn’t for everyone. Some people thrive with zero structure and do best when life is spontaneous and flexible. 

But me? I’m more productive, less stressed and way more likely to follow through on my goals and responsibilities when I have a solid routine. And the busier I get, the more I tighten things up. 

When I got back from California, I sat down and wrote out the routines I wanted in place so that, by the end of the year, I'd still be on track with my goals.Most of my day is planned out: I have a morning routine, a night routine, a weekly rhythm, and a realistic workout schedule I am to stick with.

Each of these routines includes the core things I want to prioritize--my health, my relationship, and my “side hustle”, which right now is building a business. Even though I don’t always follow them perfectly, having these systems in place keeps me moving forward. And, the best part? Once I’m in the flow of a good routine, I don’t have to rely so much on motivation and willpower.

#2 - Gratitude and Purpose

The second thing that’s been helping me is practicing small moments of gratitude and keeping perspective on purpose. 

This is a newer practice for me, but it’s been surprisingly powerful. Right now, I’d describe myself as being in a transitional phase of life. I have big goals and ambitions, but I’m not there yet. In the meantime, I’m working two part-time jobs to make ends meet--jobs that don't necessarily light me up. 

Honestly, discouragement comes up a lot. Building something from the ground up for the first time ever requires SO much patience. 

Recently, though, I heard some advice that shifted my perspective. On my favorite podcast, Happier with Gretchen Rubin, Gretchen talked about how, when you’re struggling with something, it can help to remember your purpose--your why--and persist even when it’s difficult.

That stuck with me, and I wanted to figure out how to incorporate it into my daily routine.

So now, in my daily planner, I leave space next to my to-do list to write down my purpose for the day, along with 1-3 things I’m grateful for. Usually, my purpose includes one reason for showing up to jobs I don’t love and one key focus for my business--the one thing that, if I accomplish it, I’ll consider the day a win. 

This small practice keeps me grounded. It’s small and doesn’t take me very long--which is perfect for my busy life right now. It helps me focus on the “why” behind the hard stuff and reminds me to take things one day at a time instead of spiraling about the what-ifs of the future.

And the gratitude part? It trains my brain to notice the positives, even on tough days.

#3 - Remembering: This is Not Forever

In the daily grind of work, stress, and responsibilities, it's so easy to believe life will always feel this hard. But, when you look back, you realize how much changes in just a year or two. 

For example, around this time a year ago, I was in an extremely toxic job situation and my mental health was at the lowest it’s ever been. Since then, I’ve gained so much clarity on what I want out of life and my career. I became a certified health coach, and started building my own business (not quite launched yet, but getting close!). 

I’ve created a 12-week program, written an e-book, built a website and social media presence, developed a business plan, found my niche audience and more! All while working full-time (and then some), and keeping up with all the usual “adulting” responsibilities.

So yes, day-to-day progress often feels slow and frustrating. But when I remember that this transitional season is just that--a season, not forever--it gives me motivation to keep going. 

One thing that helps is having visual reminders. A sticky note on your desk, a bracelet, or something else you see daily can serve as a reminder of the bigger picture.

Journaling also helps me reflect. And on days when I can’t journal, I’ll spend a few minutes setting intentions, saying a prayer, or simply pausing with my morning coffee. These little practices don’t take much time, but they make a big difference.

Final Thoughts

Life can feel chaotic--especially during seasons of struggle, transition, or plain old busyness. But part of creating a life I don’t want to escape from is learning to enjoy life in the present moment as much as possible, even during the harder stretches. 

If you’re in a similar place, I hope this helps. Finding small ways to stay positive, keep perspective, and even appreciate parts of a transitional season can bring a surprising sense of freedom.

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