We've all been there: staring at a massive project, feeling paralyzed, unable to make the first move. This sense of being overwhelmed is not only discouraging but can also kill productivity. If you've ever found yourself in this situation—or you're there right now—I have some strategies that might help you move the ball forward.

Understanding Overwhelm

Firstly, let's tackle the emotion itself. Overwhelm can feel intensely real, almost physical, bogging us down and keeping us from doing anything. It’s completely okay to feel this way; however, remaining stuck in this state will get you nowhere. The trick is to not let this emotion control your actions.

Four Fundamental Truths

Here are four fundamental truths about overwhelm:

  1. It feels very real and can affect your productivity.
  2. Unless you do something, nothing will change.
  3. You don’t need to complete the whole project in one go.
  4. Overwhelm can be overcome by taking small, calculated steps.

It's essential to recognize that you don't have to finish the project immediately; you just have to start. Often, the overwhelm stems from seeing the mountainous task ahead and thinking, "I can't possibly finish this." The reality is, you don't have to—you just need to take the first step.

The Two-Box Strategy

A simple approach to kickstart your project is what I like to call the "Two-Box Strategy." Grab two boxes and label one as ‘Trash’ and the other as ‘Donations.’ Then, start sorting. This small act generates momentum, creates a sense of accomplishment, and can help you overcome that initial inertia.

Take Small, Consistent Steps

Once you've started, the key is to keep going. Pick small, manageable tasks that you can do today to progress the project. It could be making one phone call, sending one email, or asking one question to the right person—anything that moves you forward.

Just One Thing

The essence of conquering overwhelm boils down to doing just one thing. Starting small can make a big difference. When you take that first step, you start to melt away the overwhelm and build momentum.

A Special Invitation

If you find that tackling overwhelm is just one part of elevating your productivity, I’d like to invite you to join our 45-Day Productivity Intensive program. In just 45 days, you will develop better productivity habits that will last a lifetime.

Overwhelm doesn't have to be your roadblock. Acknowledge it, tackle it, and move beyond it. And remember, the best way to overcome overwhelm is to start.

Feel ready to tackle your next big project? I hope these tips help you overcome overwhelm and move forward with a renewed sense of purpose.

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"The feeling of overwhelm can kill your productivity. To overcome it, do just one thing. Start small, but start. And you will begin to melt overwhelm and build momentum." @KevinEikenberry

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Kevin Eikenberry is a recognized world expert on leadership development and learning and is the Chief Potential Officer of The Kevin Eikenberry Group. He has spent over 30 years helping organizations across North America, and leaders from around the world, on leadership, learning, teams and teamwork, communication and more.

Twice he has been named by Inc.com as one of the Top 100 Leadership and Management Experts in the World and 100 Great Leadership Speakers for Your Next Conference. The American Management Association named him a “Leaders to Watch” and he has been twice named as one of the World's Top 30 Leadership Professionals by Global Gurus. Top Sales World has named him a Top Sales & Marketing Influencer several times, and his blog has been named on many “best of” lists. LeadersHum has named him one of the 200 Biggest Voices in Leadership in 2023.

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