5 Ways to Go from Overwhelmed to Overjoyed

Alexandra Kaval
Oct 7, 2019
3 min read

Updated: Oct 1, 2020

You know those weeks that are so full?

The ones where each day seems to be a sprint and then after several of those days put back to back, you realize you're dragging and need a break, stat? (Anyone? :)

That was me last month! SO good but so full.

And it got me to reflecting on what to do when we find ourselves smack dab in the middle of chaos.

If you're feeling like you're struggling to stay afloat, here are the five ways that might help you transition from overwhelmed to overjoyed.

1) First, have FUN.

Step back and reflect on what you love about what you're doing (And if that's not the case, we can totally talk about that!) So often we can find ourselves stressed about something that we actually have prayed for for so long. It can be so helpful to pause and take a step back. Give yourself perspective and have gratitude for where the Lord has got you! May the God of hope fill you with all joy & peace as you trust in Him. (Romans 15:13) We so often put undue pressure and expectations on ourselves that simply aren't needed. The how is just as important as the what. Make it joyful!

2) Consider whether you're operating with God's strength or your own.

This is a big one! When I start to get stressed or anxious, it's often because I'm feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders. You may be putting an undue responsibility and burden on your shoulders that the Lord is meant to carry. Consider whether your are surrendering to Him. Cast your anxiety on the Lord because He cares for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

3) Be present.

This isn't easy for someone who is consumed with the future (can you relate?)! Staying focused on the tasks at hand each day (or even each hour!) will keep you focus and reduce anxiety & overwhelm. I truly love looking ahead, but when I'm in a crazy week- I take it hour by hour to stay focused & calm. Plus, this makes the experience so much enjoyable (for both myself and anyone else involved, ha!).

4) Rest in Him.

Jesus Calling says it so beautifully. I totally understand why this devotional is so loved!

September 27

Relax in my everlasting arms. Your weakness is an opportunity to grow strong in awareness of My Almighty Presence. When your energy fails you, do not look inward and lament the lack you find there. Look to Me and My sufficiency; rejoice in My radiant riches that are abundantly available to help you.

Go gently through this day, leaning on Me and enjoying My Presence. Thank Me for your neediness, which is building trust-bonds between us. If you look back on your journey thus far, you can see that days of extreme weakness have been some of your most precious times. Memories of these days are richly interwoven with golden strands of My intimate Presence.

Related scripture:

Deuteronomy 33:27

Psalm 27:13-14

He is with you & walks before you.

5) Plan to celebrate!

After my busy week, I intentionally planned a day to breathe. (And, it helped to have family in town that expected me to unplug!). Knowing that I could soon exhale in a big way (and have fun while doing so!) was an awesome motivator that kept me going.

And because this is such an important conversation, here are....

3 Bonus Tips!

* Create healthy, holy habits that invite Him in.

Each month, the Val Marie Paper prayer journal has you list a challenge- a goal that will help you to make prayer a habit. During this past month, the Lord gave me this insight... to us worry as a prayer prompt. So helpful and freeing!

* Create perspective.

Be thankful for the opportunity at hand! Remember that everything before you is a gift. You get to do these things & that's awesome! Cultivate an attitude of gratitude- may sound a little cheesy, but it's oh so true.

* Soak in the good.

After you do the hard thing(s), praise God! Feel good about what He just did! Let that energy fuel you and propel you forward. The week following my crazy week was AWESOME. I felt totally empowered and capable to tackle what's in front of me. The confidence boost was such a gift.