# Overcoming Emotional Overdraft: A Journey to Balance and Growth
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Chapter 1: The Emotional Spiral
Earlier this year, I experienced the loss of my dog, which plunged me into deep sadness.
After two weeks of oversleeping, showering in the afternoon, and crying over cold leftovers, I realized it was time to make a change. So, I decided to hire a life coach.
My coach specializes in holistic approaches that focus on achieving balance in life. The first step on my path to recovery was to shift my perspective.
I tend to gravitate towards a "poor me" mentality, and I’ve been doing this for a long time; it’s a pattern I’m quite familiar with. I recognize that I am highly sensitive and empathetic, often overanalyzing situations.
Living in a world where conflict and discrimination exist can make my sensitivity feel like a hindrance rather than a strength, causing me to retreat into a dark space where I slowly wither away.
Surprisingly, my coach doesn't support this approach. She encourages me to view my sensitivity as a gift to others. While I have my reservations about this idea, she broke through my cynical exterior.
Section 1.1: Reframing Sensitivity
She explained that my traits can be both beneficial and limiting. For instance, being a deep thinker is valuable; it allows me to offer profound insights. However, when this trait becomes unbalanced, it can hold me back. I often find myself overthinking to the point of not acting, which makes the creation of this article feel like a remarkable feat.
Additionally, my high level of empathy, sometimes seen as being overly sensitive, can be both a blessing and a curse. She described it as having depth—something not everyone possesses. When I’m emotionally full, I can provide a safe space for others to share their vulnerabilities, offering them solace.
Her words resonated deeply with me, filling my heart with warmth and validation.
Subsection 1.1.1: The Pit of Emotional Overdraft
However, the downside is that I can easily become overwhelmed by my own emotions. I refer to this state as being in my "feelings overdraft." When I hit rock bottom, even the smallest triggers can bring me to tears. In those moments, I feel as if I have nothing left to offer anyone, not even myself.
What can I do? Just like when I find myself in financial overdraft, I have to work my way back to emotional stability gradually.
I wish for a quick fix, but recovery requires incremental efforts.
Section 1.2: Small Steps to Recovery
To replenish my emotional reserves, I focus on small victories. These "deposits" into my emotional bank account might include appreciating the soothing warmth of a hot shower, preparing homemade meals, taking daily walks, or enjoying a good book instead of scrolling through social media late at night. Fresh bed sheets also make a difference; you get the idea.
Recognizing the imbalance in my emotional state is crucial. It’s about prioritizing my needs so that I can eventually share my emotional depth with others who may also be struggling.
Thank you for taking the time to read my story. You are truly appreciated!
© Copyright, Rhiannon James, 2023.
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