A friend of mine recently said, “I don’t know whether I’m coming or going anymore.” And I
knew exactly what she meant.
She works about 25 hours a week. She volunteers regularly at a thrift shop. She’s happily married, living at home with her husband. Two of her kids are grown and flown. And now she’s in the thick of planning a wedding for her youngest daughter.
Life should feel lighter at this stage…except it doesn’t. Because on top of everything else, wedding planning has quietly taken over her mental space.
Suddenly, she’s at a standstill.
Not because she’s disorganized. Not because she’s incapable. But because everything feels important.
Wedding decisions. Work commitments. Volunteer shifts. And all the everyday life stuff that doesn’t stop just because
something joyful is happening...meals, errands, laundry, email, appointments.
Her brain is juggling too many tabs at once.
If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone.
When life gets this full, clarity doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from stepping back and deciding what truly matters right now.
Here’s what I gently reminded her...and what might help you too.
1. Recognize the Season You’re In
This is a temporary season. Wedding planning has a beginning and an end. Simply naming that can be freeing. It gives you permission to shift priorities for a while, without guilt.
2. Get Everything Out of Your Head
Mental clutter is exhausting. Write it all down, from wedding tasks, work responsibilities and volunteer commitments to household duties. Seeing everything in one place often brings instant relief. You can’t organize what’s floating around in your
mind.
3. Create a Short List
Instead of one overwhelming TO DO list, ask:
“What are the three things that truly need my attention this week?” Not
everything. Just the next right things.
4. Have an Honest Wedding Conversation
Chances are, her daughter doesn’t want her doing everything. Many daughters want involvement, not exhaustion. This might be the perfect time for a simple,
loving conversation:
“What parts of this do you really want help with and what would you like to handle yourself?”
Divvying up tasks can prevent resentment, reduce
overwhelm, and make the planning process more enjoyable for everyone.
5. Delegate Beyond the Wedding
This is also a moment to look at everyday life. Can her husband take on a few extra household tasks for now? Can workweeks be simplified
where possible? Delegating isn’t losing control; it’s protecting your energy.
6. Consider Pausing Non-Essential Commitments
This can feel uncomfortable, but it’s often necessary. Volunteering is meaningful, but it’s okay to say, “I need
to step back for a few months.” Pausing something good doesn’t mean you don’t care. It means you’re honoring your capacity during a busy season.
7. Keep Daily Life Simple
This isn’t the season for elaborate meals or catching up on
everything. Simple dinners. Fewer errands. Lower expectations. Let “good enough” be more than enough.
8. Remember: This Is a Meaningful Kind of Busy
Feeling overwhelmed doesn’t mean you’re failing. It means you’re navigating something
emotional, joyful, and demanding. A wedding is a big deal and it’s okay if life feels a little lopsided for a while.
If you’re in a season where everything feels important and nothing feels clear, take a breath. Write it down. Decide what matters most right now and let the rest wait patiently in line.
You don’t need to do it all.
You just need to do what matters next.
CORRECTION: In yesterday's newsletter, I indicated that I take down my Christmas decor on December 6th. That was incorrect. January 6th, the 12th day of Christmas, is the day we begin undecorating. I apologize for not catching this error prior to
publication.
On another note...
New Year, Ready for Anything: Simple Essentials to Start Fresh: Everyday items that support fresh starts, gentle routines, and a more organized, intentional year ahead.Essentials for the New Year!
