“Life Used to Be Simpler…”
You’ve probably heard someone say it—or maybe you’ve said it yourself: “Life used to be so much simpler.” These days, it can feel like every moment is packed with responsibilities, expectations, and constant noise.
Maybe you’ve even daydreamed about escaping to a quiet island, far from deadlines and demands. But the truth is, while life has gotten faster, we often have more control over our pace than we realize.
If you’re feeling weary, overwhelmed, or like you’re always spinning your wheels, these six questions can help you step back and make meaningful changes.
1. Why Do You Do What You Do?
Are you living in line with your values—or just reacting to what you think you’re “supposed” to do?
Take time to reflect on your goals and what truly matters most to you. Stephen Covey recommends creating a personal or family mission statement to guide your decisions. When you know what’s most important, it’s easier to say “yes” and “no” with confidence.
Sometimes simplifying your life means closing good doors to keep the best ones open.
2. Have You Overcommitted Yourself?
There’s no shortage of options for how to spend your time. If you have kids, their activities can multiply your commitments, too. But doing more doesn’t always mean living better.
Try this: for every new thing you say “yes” to, drop something else from your schedule. Just like you might declutter your home, decluttering your calendar makes space for peace, rest, and connection.
3. Do You Make Time for What Matters Most?
Think about what gives your life meaning—relationships, creativity, faith, or simple rest. Then, check your calendar. Do those priorities show up there?
Schedule meaningful activities like you would a doctor’s appointment. Protect that time. You can’t live according to your values if your schedule doesn’t reflect them.
4. Are You Wasting Time?
We all need downtime—but endless scrolling, streaming, or distractions often eat up more hours than we realize. These habits can leave us feeling drained instead of refreshed.
If you feel too busy for what really matters, check where your time is leaking away. Reducing “mindless” activities creates room for what restores you.
5. Do You Even Know How Busy You Are?
Try listing every activity, commitment, and responsibility you currently have—including those connected to your kids. Once you see it all on paper, divide them into three categories:
- Musts — essential responsibilities
- Shoulds — things you feel pressure to do
- Nice-to’s — optional but enjoyable
Then start trimming. Even small cuts can create breathing room for reflection, rest, and joy.
6. When Was the Last Time You Had Quiet?
It’s easy to fill every spare moment with noise—podcasts, music, TV, or scrolling. But your mind needs stillness to recharge.
Try driving in silence, taking a walk without your headphones, or sitting quietly in your backyard. You might be surprised at how calm and grounded you feel afterward.
When You Can’t Slow Down on Your Own
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, burned out, or unsure where to start, talking with a professional can help. Counseling provides space to slow down, gain perspective, and learn tools to manage stress and anxiety more effectively.
Anxiety counseling can help you clarify priorities, develop healthier boundaries, and find peace in the middle of life’s busyness. Our licensed therapists offer in-person and online sessions for clients throughout Pennsylvania.
You don’t have to keep living in overdrive—relief is possible.
Related Reading
You may also enjoy Do Less to Do More: Finding Freedom from Busyness.
About the Author
Katie Bailey, MA, LPC, is the founder and a Licensed Professional Counselor at Lime Tree Counseling in Ambler, Pennsylvania. With more than 20 years of experience, she helps people move from feeling overwhelmed to connected by offering therapy for anxiety, depression, trauma, and relationships. Along with her team of licensed therapists, she provides compassionate, evidence-based counseling to individuals and couples throughout Pennsylvania.FAQs
Why do I feel so overwhelmed all the time?
Feeling overwhelmed often comes from chronic stress, unrealistic expectations, or difficulty setting boundaries. Therapy helps you identify what’s draining you and regain balance.
Can anxiety make me feel constantly busy?
Yes. Anxiety can create pressure to stay productive, even when you’re exhausted. Learning to slow down safely is a key part of recovery.
What if I can’t cut back on responsibilities?
A counselor can help you find practical ways to manage what you can’t change and build small habits that reduce stress.
Do you offer online counseling in Pennsylvania?
Yes. Our therapists provide secure online sessions for clients anywhere in Pennsylvania.