Do you feel like your brain just isn’t working the way it’s supposed to sometimes?
As someone who's seen firsthand how *executive dysfunction* can impact daily life, I know how frustrating it can be to feel like you just can't keep it together. You can’t find the energy to organize your thoughts, tasks, or even plan ahead. And before you know it, stress starts to build up—sometimes to the point of feeling totally overwhelmed.
I’ve had conversations with parents dealing with this very issue, and there’s a common thread: feeling like the demands of life are just too much to juggle. I know you’ve probably been there yourself, trying to work, manage kids, and maintain some sense of balance, only to feel like you’re constantly running behind.
That’s why I want to dive into *executive dysfunction* and stress, and share strategies to reduce both. We can look at what’s going on in the brain, and how simple tools, like a dedicated journal, can help you reclaim control over your day.
What Exactly Is Executive Dysfunction and How Does It Affect You?
Executive dysfunction isn't a diagnosis in itself, but it refers to challenges in managing tasks that require planning, focus, and organization. It's like your brain gets stuck when it comes to making decisions or completing steps in an organized way. It’s something I’ve noticed especially in parents who are juggling multiple responsibilities. Tasks that seem easy for others might feel completely overwhelming to you. This is exactly where simple strategies for boosting executive functioning skills come into play.
From my experience, executive dysfunction often goes hand in hand with stress. When your brain isn't working the way it should, every little task can feel like a mountain. It starts with losing track of time, missing deadlines, or even forgetting appointments. Then, the stress starts to creep in. It’s a cycle that’s hard to break unless you make intentional changes in how you approach daily life.
How Can You Fix Executive Dysfunction?
The good news is, there are ways to break the cycle. In fact, Dr. Ellen Reed shared some valuable insights on how breaking tasks down into smaller, more manageable steps can help. It’s all about creating small wins, because the more success you experience, the less stress you feel. Start with easy tasks and work your way up. You’ll be amazed at how simply writing down a task, instead of letting it swirl in your head, can make all the difference.
It’s about focusing on what’s most important, and not trying to tackle everything at once. If you're working with a dedicated journal, you can organize your thoughts and tasks in a way that makes them less overwhelming. And guess what? It doesn’t have to be perfect. Just getting started can be the hardest part. Once you get going, it becomes easier to keep the momentum going.
Reducing Stress and Managing Your Day
Stress is another huge issue for parents—and honestly, it’s not just about the physical exhaustion. It's the mental load that gets to us. Between running a household and managing work and life commitments, it’s easy to feel drained. I’ve personally dealt with burnout, and I can tell you it’s a real challenge to overcome. But one thing I’ve learned over time is that stress doesn’t have to control your life.
That’s why strategies for managing parental anxiety have been so helpful for me. It’s about recognizing that you don’t have to do everything perfectly. You’re human, and there’s always room for grace. I want to emphasize something here—don’t let your inner critic take over. When you start being kind to yourself and breaking things down, the stress becomes more manageable. After all, you’re doing the best you can.
And one technique that works wonders for me is journaling. Seriously—writing down your thoughts isn’t just for capturing memories. It’s an incredible tool for reducing stress. The simple act of putting your feelings on paper helps you make sense of them and clear some space in your mind. When you do this every day, it *slowly* builds a habit of clarity and calm.
The Science Behind Stress and Executive Functioning
Stress doesn’t just live in your head—it affects your brain’s ability to function. Research shows that chronic stress can impair the prefrontal cortex, the area of your brain responsible for executive functions like decision-making, planning, and emotional regulation. That’s why when you’re overwhelmed, your brain sometimes just shuts down when it comes to staying organized and focused.
But here’s the good news: You can rewire your brain with intentional habits. The trick is finding a strategy that works for you. According to Dr. Jason Selk, one small change you can make is to focus on a daily ritual. Start each day with a quick, grounding routine—this can help set a positive tone and calm your mind before it gets too busy. This will make it easier to face the tasks ahead without feeling the weight of stress hanging over you.
Tips for Lowering Stress and Improving Mental Wellness
Beyond just managing executive dysfunction, it's crucial to lower stress in your day-to-day life. Here’s what I’ve found works best for me:
- Start small: Break down big tasks into smaller, more manageable steps. Set tiny goals that feel achievable.
- Use a journal: A dedicated journal isn’t just for writing. It’s a tool to help reflect on your progress and clear mental clutter.
- Prioritize self-care: Focus on your well-being. It doesn’t mean running away from responsibilities—it’s about recognizing that you need time to recharge.
I can’t stress enough how valuable it is to build these habits into your day. And if you’re looking for more resources, this article provides even more insights into reducing stress through positive parenting strategies.
Overcoming Burnout: A Personal Experience
I know how hard it is when you feel like you’re on the edge of burnout. It’s something I’ve dealt with in the past, and it took a toll on me. But taking small steps—such as getting a little more sleep, journaling my thoughts, and setting realistic expectations—has helped me regain control. It’s about finding what works for you. For me, it wasn’t about doing everything perfectly. It was about accepting that I didn’t have to be perfect every day.
If you're dealing with burnout, check out this article on how to recover and rebuild your energy. Understanding the signs of burnout and addressing them early can make all the difference.
Final Thoughts on Tackling Executive Dysfunction and Stress
At the end of the day, I want you to know that you don’t have to do this alone. I’ve been there, and I understand how overwhelming it can be. But you can manage executive dysfunction and stress. Start small, be kind to yourself, and build routines that work for you. Whether it’s using a dedicated journal or practicing stress management techniques, there are many ways to reclaim control over your day.
Remember, you're not failing—you're learning. And with time and patience, you can make steady progress toward a more organized, calm, and fulfilling life.
References
- Reed, Ellen. “How to Deal with Mom Burnout.” *Level Up Game Plan*. https://levelupgameplan.com/mindful-parenting-resources/6677/how-to-deal-with-mom-burnout
- Selk, Jason. “Simple Strategies for Boosting Executive Functioning Skills.” *Level Up Game Plan*. https://levelupgameplan.com/mindful-parenting-resources/6707/5-simple-strategies-for-boosting-executive-functioning-skills
- “How to Regulate Emotions as a Parent.” *Level Up Game Plan*. https://levelupgameplan.com/mindful-parenting-resources/6646/how-to-regulate-emotions-as-a-parent
- “What is Mom Burnout?” *The Guardian*. https://www.theguardian.com/healthcare/mom-burnout