Lately I am starting to understand that my brain has learned to thrive in chaos. While this may seem like a valuable skill, it has actually become an unhealthy coping mechanism. My brain has grown to need chaos and will generate it, which creates much stress in my life. One example is that I frequently allow my to-do list to become extremely long by adding more and more to it. One completed task is replaced by numerous more that are just as pressing. How can I ever get everything accomplished? AAAAA! I become overwhelmed, which negatively affects those around me. When my brain tries to create chaos, I remind myself to Keep It Simple, Silly. Focusing on a few simple truths helps me to readjust: Life is good. The world will not end if I do not get everything accomplished right now. It’s okay to take a minute to breathe. I’ve got this!
The holiday season can mean the addition of chaos and stressors unique to this time of year. Gifts to purchase, social engagements to attend, meals to prepare, houses to clean for guests, difficult family situations to navigate…the list goes on. It can be easy to dive into the holiday traditions with an overwhelming, unhealthy fervor and mindset, creating chaos around us.
When life is chaotic, overwhelming, and stressful, take a moment to readjust and focus on the simple truths found in Ephesians 1:4-8:
“Even before he made the world, God loved us and chose us in Christ to be holy and without fault in his eyes. God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure. So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son. He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins. He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding.” (New Living Translation)
You are loved. You are chosen. You are faultless. You belong. You have a family. You are forgiven. You are valuable. You are showered with kindness, wisdom, and understanding. Breathe. You’ve got this!