If you’re feeling overwhelmed by work, it can be easy to feel like you’re stuck in a rut. Trust me. I definitely get it. There have been too many days to count recently where I just stare at my computer, overwhelmed on what to work on next. There are some simple things you can do to help relieve the stress and get back on track. Here are five of the best things to do when you’re feeling overwhelmed by work:

Take a break.

It’s important to step away from your work and give yourself a mental break. This could be as simple as going for a walk, taking a quick nap, or spending some time with friends or family. Taking a break can help you clear your head and refocus, so you can tackle your work with renewed energy. Sometimes I just need a change of scenery. I drive myself to a coffee shop, get a drink, and set up a little office there. 

Prioritize your tasks.

It’s easy to feel like everything is urgent and important. However, not all tasks are created equal. Take a few minutes to prioritize your tasks and focus on the ones that are most important or urgent. This will help you feel more in control and make it easier to tackle your workload. If I’m not sure, I usually just ask myself, “which of these tasks will generate the most income/benefit before others?” That usually helps me weed out the unnecessary clutter and focus on what’s most important.

Ask for help.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to reach out to your coworkers, manager, or HR department for support. They may be able to offer you additional resources, such as training or assistance with certain tasks, to help you manage your workload. If you work for yourself like I do, expressing how I’m feeling to my partner Alex or my team helps them to see where they could assist me. If you don’t ask, most people won’t know.

Practice self-care.

Taking care of yourself is crucial when you’re feeling overwhelmed. This could include activities like exercising, meditating, or engaging in a hobby you enjoy. These activities can help you reduce stress and boost your mood, so you can approach your work with a positive attitude. This is more important than ever in the colder, darker months.

Set boundaries.

It’s important to set boundaries when you’re feeling overwhelmed. This could mean setting specific times for checking emails, turning off notifications outside of work hours, or saying no to additional tasks or projects. Setting boundaries can help you manage your workload and prevent burnout. I make sure I set aside time for myself every single day. I don’t let my emails ping my phone (this was a huge improvement for me). Find ways to give yourself a little space from work.

It’s easier said than done. Without a doubt. But you and I can keep working at it together!