Find a space where you can take a moment to catch your breath.
We are gradually returning to our normal lives here in the UK. How are you feeling about life post Lockdown? Anxious? Excited? Maybe a bit of both..? I really hope this blog post will help you gain some perspective on what you can do about feeling overwhelmed at a time when we feel we should be excited about life returning back to normal.
It has been 16 months like no other hasn’t it? Life as we knew it changed beyond all recognition. We had to learn, and fast, how to manage our lives with a global pandeamic.
Our homes have been our sanctuary over this last year. Love this calming space and gorgeous Olive Tree from Charles Ted
Whatever you feel today is totally OKAY. Repeat that out loud!
How you are feeling in this moment is totally OK..
No one can take that away from you. We have all had our own individual experiences of the Covid-19 pandeamic, some good, some horrific, yet it would be wrong for anyone to suggest how you should be feeling..
“Vulnerability is not winning or losing. It’s having the courage to show up and be seen when we have no control over the outcome.”
Brene Brown
You are not alone, 1/2 of the UK are feeling anxious and overwhelmed about the changes to ease Lockdown and indeed what about life post lockdown will now be like. For many of us, we are now used to logging on from home to have meetings, workouts and order our food shopping, all online, without leaving the house.
We’ve learned that our new normal is to stay at home. The commute is as far as from the bedroom, to the kitchen, dining room or study and as we reach these longed for dates, the thought of the work commute on the tube or heavy traffic is something we’ve not missed and the heart starts to race..
Postives and negatives about working from home, this was a postive!Homemade cookies and coffee Sunrise walks on Dartmoor was a huge positive to this last year
Many of us will feel excited, many of us apprehensive. Lots of us maybe feel a bit of both. Join me in trying to navigate these next few weeks together..
“Self-reflection entails asking yourself questions about your values, assessing your strengths and failures, thinking about your perceptions and interactions with others, and imagining where you want to take your life in the future.”
Robert L. Rosen
Let’s take baby steps..
It will take time to find our feet again. (I can’t even remember when I last wore heels!) In all seriousness, much like last March when we were told to stay home, it took time to adjust and adapt accordingly. Now the reverse is happening and again, it will take time us time to adjust and get back into a natural rhythm. Be easy on yourself!
Keep talking! Share how you are feeling with friends, family, colleagues. (and even in the comments below) Be open and transparant, I’m sure they will resonate with you too. This whole situation has been a BIG deal. Our mental health and wellbeing is truly key.
“Journal what you love, what you hate, what’s in your head, what’s important. Journaling organizes your thoughts; allows you to see things in a concrete way that otherwise you might not see. Focus on what you think you need to find in your art.”
Kay Walkingstick
Journal. Consider writing down how you’re feeling. We have good days, great days and everything inbetween and by writing them down, we can distinguish between. Writing down can be freeing, can help figure out what you truely think and can be very therapautic. Love this journal from Gisela Graham Leather Effect Mini Notebook A6 – Grey
You don’t have to do everything at once! Breathe, take your time.. (Although I’m trying to remain calm about the sports fixtures that are coming in thick and fast for my children and me as taxi driver!!) I shared in a previous blog thoughts about feeling a little happier and less overwhelmed. I believe these ideas haven’t dated in 12 months and so hope you may find some inspiration.
Go at your own pace – if you’ve ever been off work with an illness or had maternity leave, then you may have had a phased return to work before. Much like a return to work, consider adapting your own phasing back to your “new normal” This is a motto I’ve shared on many occaisions and especially with my clients:
Start Low, Go Slow, Aim High
Start Low – With anything new, decide what you want to achieve and start with low expectations. What is the minimal thing you’d be happy with? This isn’t a negative by any means, but by starting with low expectation instantly removes some pressure and you’re more likely to feel in control.
Go Slow – Once you have your new routine in place, take it steady before you start adding new pressures to your daily life. Get used to the new normal, adjust the sails if you need to.
Aim high – Remember the saying “begin with the end in mind?” This concept of aiming high, is similar. You may have had time over the last year to really think about which direction you wish your life to take – so go for it!
I’ve created some planners which I find really useful in keeping me focused and organised which you can find here.
I hope these will give you a little inspiration so that you can create a feeling of being more in control and less overwhelmed. You can then concentrate on the things that are most important to you.
Spend time with people that make you happy, where you can be your true authentic self. Go for a walk in the wind, rain and sun! Make time for the coffee..
Let go of the people in your life who add to the anxiety and stress, or the situations that don’t serve you. So hard to do but trust me, you deserve to be happy and not worry about the people that don’t champion you. This might help..
Pratice gratitude and being vulnerable. It’s no secret that I’m a huge admirer of Brene Brown’s work, having first read The Power of Vulnerability years ago.
She taught me that there is absolutely no shame in being vulnerable, that you don’t have to be in control of every situation.
Easier said than done, I know! Writing down 5 things that you are grateful for can really help gain perspective.
Empty the mind – many struggle to sleep, with the brain starting to whirl the minute you turn out the light.
Keeping a notebook by your bed so you can scribble any thing you think you might struggle to remember in the morning can really help.
How pretty is this one from LifeStyled Planner? The Journal is an A5 bullet journal with high quality pages printed with dotted graph for all of your planning needs. Great for creative bullet journalling and making notes.
“Journaling is paying attention to the inside for the purpose of living well from the inside out.”
Lee Wise
Take care of yourself today, tomorrow and all 365 days of the year. Beautiful flowers from Bloom and Wild
I really hope this blog post has helped you gain some perspective on what you can do about feeling overwhelmed at a time when we feel we should be excited about life returning back to normal. I’d love to know your biggest take home / lightbulb moment in the comments below, together with how you’ll take action this week.
What will you be keeping in place from our Lockdown days? Maybe you’ve opted to continue to work from home? Maybe you’ve decided to change career altogether?
So that you don’t miss next weeks blog, sign up to receive it straight to your emails, it’s quick and so simple to do, simply follow the link
Whatever you decide to do, stay happy and healthy – those two things are priceless.
The hours blur into days, and the to-do list somehow grows longer. The truth is, we don’t always need a full day to make progress. Sometimes, an hour is all it takes to shift your mood, clear your space, or move something important forward.
I call this The Power of an Hour, a simple mindset shift to help you focus, reduce overwhelm, and create meaningful change in small, steady steps.
Charlie Mackesy has captured the nations hearts during the Pandemic, putting into words and images what many of us have felt..
Why An Hour Matters
When life feels busy or you’re stuck in that “all or nothing” mindset, it’s easy to put things off until you have more time. But waiting for perfect conditions often means doing nothing at all.
One focused hour can transform how you feel — mentally, physically, emotionally. It creates movement, momentum, and a little spark of calm in the chaos.
“Believe there is a great power silently working all things for good, behave yourself and never mind the rest.”
Beatrix Potter
How to Use Your Hour Wisely
You don’t need to plan it perfectly. Simply choose one small area of life that could benefit from your attention.
Here are a few gentle ideas to get started:
Tidy one space — a kitchen drawer, your desk, or the corner that’s been quietly bothering you.
Move your body — a walk by the sea, yoga in the living room, or a home workout that lifts your energy.
Prepare for the week ahead — plan meals, sort laundry, or lay out tomorrow’s clothes.
Connect — call someone you’ve been meaning to catch up with.
Reflect — journal, read a chapter of something inspiring, or simply sit with a cup of tea and breathe.
An hour spent intentionally can bring more peace than a whole day of rushing.
Make It A Habit
Try scheduling a “Power Hour” once or twice a week. Protect it like an appointment. Use it to do something that will make life feel lighter or more aligned.
The goal isn’t perfection, it’s progress, clarity, and calm.
A Little Inspiration
If you’d like to explore this idea further, I highly recommend The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle — a beautiful reminder to slow down and live more consciously in the present moment. you’re thinking about which positive actions to do, break it down into little areas and ask;
Mark Twain that said, “Dance like nobody’s watching; love like you’ve never been hurt. Sing like nobody’s listening; live like it’s heaven on earth.
Mark Twain
Some Simple Ideas to Try
Turn up your favourite song and have a kitchen dance. Instant mood-lifter!
Plant some bulbs or herbs on your windowsill — nurturing growth reminds us of hope.
Go for a walk somewhere new — fresh air and change of scenery do wonders.
Try a #powerofanhour to tackle something you’ve been avoiding. You’ll be amazed what an hour of focus can do. (Read more about it here)
Move your body gently — yoga, stretching, or even a short walk can lift your spirits.
Write down three things you’re grateful for — it’s a proven way to shift perspective.
Remember: it’s not about doing it all. It’s about doing something.
There are hundreds of apps out there that can help you too including Headspace, Mind Detox and Gaia are all favourites of mine.
“Your now is not your forever”
I love this quote, it’s a gentle reminder that while we may feel overwhelmed at times, it won’t last forever. Simple, steady steps can help us find our calm again.
Continue Your Mission.
If you enjoyed exploring The Power of an Hour, you might also love these reads from the Woman on a Mission archive — each one designed to inspire calm, focus and a little everyday joy:
An hour might not sound like much, but used with intention, it can be truly powerful. You don’t need to overhaul your life, just start with one calm, focused hour.
Because one hour can change your day. And enough of those days can change your life.
I’d love to know, what’s one small positive action you’ll take today? Share your thoughts in the comments below or connect with me on Instagram — I always love hearing how you bring these ideas to life. Let’s inspire each other, one simple step at a time. 🌿
Let me introduce you to a tool that’s helped me (and so many of my clients) find clarity, focus, and motivation — the Power of an Hour.
It’s beautifully simple: one hour of focused time dedicated to a single mission or task. No distractions. No pressure to be perfect. Just progress.
Do You Ever Feel Overwhelmed?
Maybe you have a mountain of things to do and don’t know where to start.Or perhaps it’s just one task, but it feels so big, you’ve overthought it into paralysis.
When that happens, we procrastinate, scroll through our phones and do everything but the thing. Sound familiar?
Here’s How To Use The Power Of An Hour:
Decide on your Mission. What’s one thing you want to achieve today?
Turn off distractions. Notifications off, phone away.
Set your timer for one hour.
Get started. No overthinking, just action!
Why It Works?
Putting gentle urgency around your Mission helps you focus and get results. You’ll be amazed how much you can do in 60 distraction-free minutes. For a deeper dive into mindfulness and staying present, I highly recommend The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle. You can find it here on Amazon
“The Power of an Hour is such a help to me as I can’t physically do as much as I used to do. The Power Hour is such a string and positive name, it doesn’t make you feel feeble that you can only manage an hour!! Thanks for sharing, it’s been life changing for my husband and I”
Alice
What If You Don’t Have A Full Hour?
That’s completely fine! Even 20 or 30 minutes of focused time can make a huge difference. Sometimes it’s not the task itself that’s hard, it’s getting started.
Remember, your Power of an Hour doesn’t have to be about productivity. It could be about recharging your mind or taking care of yourself. Self-care and mental wellbeing are far more important than an empty inbox or a completed to-do list.
Some Ideas To Get Your Started:
Have a long soak in the bath with a good book..
Call a friend you’ve been meaning to catch up with.
Get outside for a walk in the the fresh air.
Make It Yours.
Whatever you decide to do with your Power of an Hour:
Do it with intention
Without scrolling through your phone
Without interruption..
This is YOUR time!
The Power of an Hour is a simple, powerful way to bring focus and intention into your day. I’ve shared my free daily planner and other tools in the Organisation section, they really help me make the most of my Power Hours.
What will you do with your next Power of an Hour?
I’d love to know, join in the conversation on my Instagram, Facebook or comment below.
Feel free to tag me into your #powerofanhour and use this hashtag! I’d love to know how you find using this simple tool and what an effect it has on your daily life and routine.
In a world that rarely slows down, it’s easy to feel like you’re constantly catching up — with work, family, and life in general. Those waves of overwhelm can creep in quietly, leaving you feeling flat, restless or simply not quite yourself. This post is all about simple ways to help you feel less overwhelmed and a little happier, wherever you are right now.
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. I’ve felt it too and over time, I’ve found a few simple rituals that help me feel less overwhelmed and a little happier, calmer and more in control.
So, if you’ve been feeling stretched, scattered, or emotionally tired lately, these gentle habits might help you reconnect with yourself and rediscover a sense of calm and balance.
Simple Daily Habits To Help you Feel Less Overwhelmed.
How To Share How You’re Feeling
It’s amazing what happens when we stop bottling things up. Talk to someone you trust ~ a partner, a friend, a colleague and be honest about how you’re feeling. They say it’s good to talk and it really is.
It doesn’t make you weak; it makes you human. We all have moments when things feel heavy. Opening up helps lighten the load and reminds you that you’re not doing this alone.
If talking feels too much, try journaling or writing a few lines in your notes app. It’s a simple way to release what’s sitting on your mind. open about it, try not to bottle it up.
How A Power Hour Helps You Feel Less Overwhelmed
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know I love a good list. When your mind feels cluttered, grab a notebook and write down everything that’s worrying you or taking up space in your thoughts. No filter, no order, just get it out of your head and onto paper. Make it exhaustive.
Then, set a timer for one focused hour — your Power Hour. Make a cup of your favourite drink, turn off all distractions and notifications and set your timer for ONE hour. Look at your list and circle one or two things you can actually do something about today. Even small steps count.
Taking gentle action helps you regain a sense of control, and often, that’s where calm begins. Focusing on what you can influence — even just a small part of it, is surprisingly powerful. By reclaiming a little control, that sense of overwhelm can ease, even if only slightly. This is also a wonderful activity to do with children of any age when they’re feeling stretched or anxious.
Coffee And Candle Chats
Connection soothes the soul. One of my favourite rituals is arranging what I call a Coffee and Candle Chat , a simple catch-up where I make a fresh coffee, light a candle and have a meaningful chat with a friend.
If meeting in person isn’t possible, pick up the phone or have a video chat. It’s these small moments of connection that remind us we belong.
It doesn’t need to be fancy or long, just intentional. Sharing stories, laughter, or even silence over a cuppa can shift your whole mood.
Send Some Happy Post
There’s something so joyful about receiving a handwritten note, isn’t there? I’ve always had a soft spot for stationery and keep a little box of cards ready for when I want to send some happy post.
This week, why not send one? It could be to a friend, a relative, or someone who’s simply been on your mind. A few handwritten words can brighten someone’s day ~ and yours too.
Sort Out The Little Things
Sometimes it’s the smallest tasks that create the most mental noise. The squeaky door, that messy drawer, the email you’ve been avoiding.
Set aside half an hour and deal with a few of them, home at your desk or even in the car. Dedicate some time to sorting out the little things, the ones that every day you think “I must sort that out”.
You’ll be surprised how much even small actions can lift your energy and bring a sense of calm to your space. It’s not just about tidying your home, t’s about clearing mental clutter too. Over half term, alongside my linen cupboard Mission, I gave my study a thorough spring clean, and yes, even tackled those tricky kitchen drawers! I also sorted my Pinterest boards and replaced the cracked screen protector on my phone, little things that make a real difference. The result? A clearer space and a lighter mind.
Boost Your Vitamin D
Getting outside, even for ten minutes, can work wonders for your mood and energy.
Vitamin D supports bone health, immunity and overall wellbeing, but it also boosts your mood. So, whether it’s a short walk, coffee in the garden, or standing barefoot in the grass for a moment, let yourself pause and soak it in.
It’s amazing how much brighter the world feels after a little fresh air.
Create A Positivity Jar.
This is a lovely habit to share with family or keep just for yourself. Each time you think of something you’re grateful for or something you’re looking forward to, write it down and pop it in a jar.
Over time, it becomes a collection of happy thoughts and small moments, something you can dip into whenever you need a gentle reminder of what’s good.
Simple, meaningful and full of hope. It’s a wonderful mini Mission to set some time aside at the end of each month or year and read all notes. For more simple ways to ease stress, the Mind UK wellbeing tips are a supportive read.
A Few More Simple Mood Boosters
Listen to a favourite podcast or audiobook.
Dance around the kitchen to a song that makes you smile.
Look through old holiday photos or start planning your next adventure.
Move your body, even a ten-minute stretch or walk counts.
Challenge a friend or family member to a board game or online quiz.
Daily And Weekly Planners
I’ve created a few printable planners that help me stay focused, grounded, and organised, especially when life feels full. You can find them here. They’re designed to help you take back your time and energy, so you can focus on what truly matters most.
Daily Planner Weekly Planner
Final Thoughts
Remember, small steps make a big difference. Whether it’s lighting a candle, writing a list, or taking a few moments outside, every tiny act of calm adds up.
You don’t need to have it all figured out. Just keep showing up for yourself, one gentle step at a time.
What helps you feel calmer when life feels overwhelming? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
I’m the creator of Woman on a Mission, a lifestyle space dedicated to helping women bring more calm, confidence and balance into everyday life. Born from my own journey to slow down and live with greater intention, it offers inspiration around wellbeing, organisation, home and mindset, one meaningful mission at a time
It will take time to find our feet again. (I can’t even remember when I last wore heels!) In all seriousness, much like last March when we were told to stay home, it took time to adjust and adapt accordingly. Now the reverse is happening and again, it will take time us time to adjust and get back into a natural rhythm. Be easy on yourself! 
