Hey there! Today's episode is super fresh because I've been actively putting these strategies into practice. I want to share with you my process for dealing with overwhelm, and how I've discovered that treating everything as a project brings amazing clarity.
What Overwhelm Feels Like For Me
You know those moments when you're in the shower, driving, or trying to sleep, and suddenly remember "Oh no, I didn't contact that person!" or "I forgot to respond to that email!"? When these micro-reminders keep popping up, that's my sign that overwhelm is creeping in. When I'm not overwhelmed, I'm typically proactive and on top of things. But when these little reminders start haunting me, it's time to take action.
My Key Strategy: Everything Is A Project
Here's something crucial - I don't separate work and life. Whether it's preparing for a workshop or remembering to get cash for the gardener, it all goes into one system. Why? Because these tasks all use up mental bandwidth, and the second I write them down, I feel better.
My Simple But Effective System
Want to know what works for me? Here's my process:
I use Google Sheets (I've tried Asana, Trello, but this is my favourite). Here's what I do:
• Create columns for week beginning dates
• List all my projects in Column A (work commitments, life goals, even my half marathon training)
• Add at least 5 rows under each project
• Brain dump every single micro-task, no matter how small
• Color code and assign tasks to specific weeks
• Transfer important tasks to my calendarWhy This Works
The magic happens when you get everything out of your head and onto the sheet. Those floating ideas that were consuming your mental RAM? They now have a home. It's like having a trusted system that lets your brain relax.
Pro Tips
• Batch similar tasks (like recording pre-session videos)
• Break down big projects into tiny, manageable tasks
• Use your calendar as your commitment device
• Give yourself fake deadlines and treat them as real
• Don't judge tasks as too small - if it's taking up mental space, write it downLet's Connect!
I'd love to hear your strategies for managing overwhelm. Send me a voice note on social media or email me What works for you? How do you handle those overwhelming moments?
Remember, sometimes the simplest systems are the most effective. This method might not work for everyone, but it's been a game-changer for me. Try it out and let me know how it goes!
Catch you in tomorrow's episode!
Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.com
P.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are three ways I can help:
1. Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel:Â Let's energise your next event. (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L9RyOeXZfW4)
2. Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint (https://2hourwork.shop/) .Â
3. Red Carpet Campout: Inspire, Indulge, Invent. Let’s take your ideas outside in March 2025. (https://www.leannehughes.com/events/red-carpet-campout)
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