Stress, anxiety, and feeling overwhelmed is disturbingly commonplace in today’s world but we weren’t built to function this way. We all are given 24 hours each day and we’ve gotten to the point where we cram every minute with tasks, commitments, and chaos but then wonder why we have panic attacks or heavy chests, and lungs that seem unable to fill with air. Believe me, I’m writing in response to this quote for myself as much as anyone. I’m an over-committer, over-scheduler, and “yes” person… often to the detriment of myself and those around me. I’m learning though (sometimes painfully) that it’s ok to say “no” or “I wouldn’t be able to focus on that the way it deserves so I can’t accept the commitment.” It’s not easy – sometimes the guilt monster comes banging at my brain – but I’m working on standing firm in my abilities. I am realizing that I would rather do less and do it well than to do more and barely get things done. This quote helps remind us that we don’t have to do it all. We don’t have to figure it all out right now. We can take pauses. And the most important part… We are strong. We’ve got this. And we can take it a bit at a time.

Sarah Deats

Sarah Deats is a Behavioral Health Technician at RI International and the Hope Inc. Stories Inspiration Engineer.