Momentum Over Anxiety
MAKE THE CONNECTION
Welcome to this edition of Make the Connection, where we uncover the habits, strategies, and mindset shifts that can help you align your life with your goals and values. This space isn’t just about inspiration; it’s about actionable steps you can take to bridge the gap between where you are and where you want to be—whether it’s finding clarity in chaos, celebrating small wins, or navigating life’s toughest challenges with confidence.
This week, we’re tackling a struggle we’ve all faced: overwhelm.
Overwhelm isn’t just a feeling; it’s a roadblock that can stall progress in every area of our lives—family, career, personal growth. The endless notifications, back-to-back meetings, and mounting to-dos can leave us feeling paralyzed, unsure of where to start. But here’s the good news: overwhelm doesn’t have to define your day.
What if, instead of letting it stop you, you used it as a launchpad for momentum? What if you could channel that energy into action and shift from stuck to unstoppable?
In this issue, I’m sharing simple, effective strategies to help you:
- Reclaim control over your schedule, even on the busiest days.
- Tap into momentum to spark creativity and motivation.
- Transform your mindset to thrive in the face of challenges.
By the end of this, you’ll have the tools to not just manage overwhelm but turn it into a stepping stone for personal growth.
Let’s start with this truth: action is the antidote to anxiety.
I know this because I’ve been there. Some days, it’s 650+ unread emails, a packed calendar, and kids who need me—all at once. And while I’m endlessly grateful for these blessings, the sheer volume can feel like too much. Those are the moments when my inner voice tempts me to throw in the towel, hide under the covers, and hope the world pauses for a moment.
But here’s the thing: avoiding the overwhelm only feeds it. The work keeps piling up, and the guilt of trying to “rest” without truly resolving anything makes it even harder to move forward.
Enter the power of momentum.
I once heard US Navy Admiral William H. McRaven say, “If you want to change the world, start by making your bed.”
At first, it sounds almost trivial. But this small act is a catalyst—it’s about creating momentum. Making your bed isn’t just about organization; it’s a declaration. It’s proof, first thing in the morning, that you’ve accomplished something. That small win sets the tone for your day, creating a ripple effect that drives confidence, energy, and action.
It’s the same principle as those gym days when you don’t feel like going but drag yourself there anyway. The moment you start moving, you realize the resistance was all in your head. The mind has a way of tricking you into thinking you can’t, but action proves that you absolutely can.
To break free from overwhelm, you need that pattern interrupt—something to flip the script and let your actions overpower your thoughts.
Here are three steps you can take today to shift into action and start building new habits.
1
Start Small and Specific: Pick one task—no matter how small—and commit to completing it and check it off your list. Whether it’s making your bed, writing a single email, or organizing one corner of your desk, starting small builds confidence and momentum for bigger actions.
2
Time-Box Your Efforts: Set a timer for 10–15 minutes and focus on a single task. Knowing there’s a defined end point can reduce overwhelm and help you get started. Often, you’ll find yourself wanting to keep going once the timer ends.
3
“Getting organized is a sign of self respect.”
― Gabrielle Bernstein, #1 New York Times bestselling author
“For every minute spent organizing, an hour is earned.”
— Anonymous.
Ask Yourself This:
What’s your go-to strategy for breaking free from overwhelm and building momentum? I’d love to hear your tips!
Want more insights like this? Stay connected for weekly newsletters filled with actionable advice, personal reflections, and strategies to help you create meaningful impact.
With Gratitude,
Melanie 💖