We all get stressed or overwhelmed with our daily responsibilities from time to time. But we’re not always good at telling them apart. And this is important, because the way out of overwhelm is different form the way out of stress.

Stress is caused when the demands on us outweigh the resources we feel we have to cope. Overwhelm happens when high amounts of stress make us feel like we can't cope with our lives' demands. The way out of overwhelm is non-doing, resting, and letting our nervous system settle down.

Prolonged stress and overwhelm can lead to burnout, which just puts more stress on our nervous system, and makes it harder for us to function. In this quick dip, Rachel offers practical advice to help you take care of yourself, recognise overwhelm, and give yourself the time you need to rest.

Listen to this episode

1. To learn the difference between stress and overwhelm
2. To discover the benefits of non-doing and how it can help you overcome overwhelm
3. For practical tips on reducing overwhelm in the future

Episode highlights

• [00:03:19] Mindful play
• [00:05:03] The F**k it mindset
• [00:06:58] What will future me thank me for? (midroll)
• [00:08:16] Permission to stop

Resources

• THRIVE Weekly Planner
• More episodes of You Are Not a Frog:
• How to Say F**k it and Become Ridiculously Relaxed – Episode 130 with John C Parkin
• The Perils of Perfectionism – Episode 22 with Nicky Odgers
• What to Do When You are Overwhelmed – Episode 132 with Gerrie Hawes
• How to Escape the Drama Triangle and Stop Rescuing People – Episode 75 with Annie Hanekom
• Atlas of the Heart: Mapping Meaningful Connection and the Language of Human Experience, by Brené Brown
• Download the episode’s workbook and CPD form. You can use them for reflection and to submit for your appraisal.

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Connect with Rachel

Have any questions? Contact Rachel through these platforms:

• LinkedIn: @Dr-Rachel-Morris
• Twitter: @DrRachelMorris
• Email: [email protected]

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Mentioned in this episode:

Permission to Pause

A free 60-minute sanctuary for doctors – a quiet hour in the middle of winter where your role can fall away and you can reappear.