Finding Calm in the Chaos
by Laura Storey
We’ve all had those days when life feels like it’s moving too fast—when we’re juggling too much and struggling to keep up. It’s easy to get caught in a loop of self-criticism, thinking we should be doing better, faster, or more. But what if there was a simple way to pause and give yourself a little space, even in the middle of chaos?
The other day, I was in line at the grocery store, and I couldn’t help but notice the woman in front of me. She seemed flustered, juggling her wallet, phone, and bags, muttering something about “always forgetting” things. There was a tense energy around her like she was fighting an invisible storm but still trying to keep a smile on her face.
It wasn’t just what she said but how she spoke to herself that caught my attention—the harshness and impatience in her tone. I recognized it immediately. I’ve spent years at the mercy of my inner critic, and I know how overwhelming it can feel when that critical voice takes over.
Practical Tip 1: Notice Your Inner Critic
We all have an inner voice that can be harsh and impatient, especially under pressure. The first step in creating inner space is simply noticing when that critical voice appears. Awareness alone can shift your perspective. The next time you catch yourself in self-criticism, pause and take a deep breath. Ask yourself: "What is this part of me feeling right now?"
At that moment, I wanted to share a gentle tool that helps me: pausing and saying, “I’m sensing something in me feels frustrated right now.” Just that tiny shift in our language can make such a difference. It invites us into Presence. When we can step back and notice it as a part of us—rather than all of us—we begin to feel the space to breathe again; we can respond with more compassion and less judgment.
Practical Tip 2: Use Presence Language
When you notice the inner critic, try shifting your language. Instead of saying, “I’m so frustrated,” you can say, “A part of me is feeling frustrated.” This shift helps you separate from the feeling, allowing you to recognize that it’s not your entire self that’s upset, just a part. This practice of Presence Language is powerful because it creates the space to be with what’s there, without getting completely overwhelmed by it.
Practical Tip 3: Pause and Create Space
That small act of noticing is where healing starts. It may seem subtle, but it’s powerful. When you pause and acknowledge how a part of you is feeling, you begin to open up space for compassion and calm. It doesn’t have to be a big moment—you can practice this anywhere, anytime, even during a busy day.
Next time you find yourself caught in a storm of inner criticism, see if you can take a moment to pause and say, “Oh, I’m sensing something in me feels… (fill in the blank).” It’s never too late to create more space—even when life feels overwhelming.
Life can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to stay stuck in that feeling. By pausing, noticing, and using compassionate language, you can create more space inside, even in the busiest moments. This simple shift can make all the difference in how you meet life’s challenges—with more kindness and ease.
