If you find yourself frequently overwhelmed by your workload and struggling to manage everything on your plate, it may be a sign that you are overcommitting. There are several reasons why people tend to overcommit, such as seeking validation, fearing rejection or failure, and constantly comparing themselves to others. Studies have shown that overcommitment can increase stress levels, resulting in emotional distress, like feelings of being overwhelmed and anxious, as well as worsening physical health issues like sleep problems. Overcommitment can also lead to a “siege” mentality, where you constantly feel under pressure or attack, leading to more conflicts with others and overall dissatisfaction at work. However, there are some strategies that can help you break free from this cycle, including practicing micro-mastery and implementing a decision delay buffer.