Overwhelm doesn’t usually show up with warning signs. It slips in quietly, disguising itself as productivity, dedication, or simply “the way things are right now.” The problem is that once it becomes your default state, it rewires how you lead, how you connect, and how you live.
Here’s an easy way to stop it before it starts:
The One Question to Ask Yourself Each Day
“Am I leading with focus, or just reacting to what’s in front of me?”
This question helps leaders break out of autopilot. If the answer is “reacting,” it doesn’t mean failure. It means feedback. It’s a reminder to pause, reset, and find focus before constant overwhelm starts to feel normal.
A Quick Reset Practice
When you notice you’re in reaction mode:
- Stop for one minute.
- Write down the single most important outcome you want to move forward today.
- Give that one thing your focus, even if just for the next block of time.
It’s not about erasing overwhelm in one step. It’s about interrupting the cycle, moment by moment, and choosing focus over reaction. Leaders who take a moment each day for this quick check often find themselves more present and effective before stress becomes overwhelming.
My Practice Leaders offers workshops and one-on-one coaching to help people grow in their leadership and everyday work. If you’d like to see what we can do for you, book a discovery call here: https://mypracticeleaders.com.au/