When you’re in “over your skis” …

Imagine standing at the peak of a snow-covered mountain, skis strapped to your feet, heart pounding with a mix of exhilaration and fear. The slope ahead beckons with its pristine beauty, but as you push off, you quickly realize you’re “in over your skis.” In skiing, this happens when a skier leans too far forward, causing their skis to get ahead of them, leading to a loss of balance and a likely fall. This phrase perfectly captures those moments in life when we dive headfirst into challenges that outstrip our experience and capabilities, leaving us struggling to maintain our balance and avoid a catastrophic fall.

HOW DID I GET HERE?!
The allure of the steep slope is often deceptive. We see others seemingly effortlessly navigating challenging terrain and assume we can do the same. This can stem from a desire for approval, an irrational need to prove ourselves, or simply an overestimation of our abilities. Perhaps it’s the thrill of the challenge, the adrenaline rush of pushing our limits. Whatever the reason, the result is often the same: we find ourselves struggling to keep our balance.

STAYING ON SOLID GROUND
So, how can we avoid putting ourselves in situations where we’re in over our skis?

Start with an honest self-assessment. The fastest way to find yourself in a situation in which you’re “in over your skis” is to not be honest with yourself about yourself and your capabilities. The Apostle Paul instructs us to avoid this potentially calamitous error: “Because of the privilege and authority God has given me, I give each of you this warning: Don’t think you are better than you really are. Be honest in your evaluation of yourselves, measuring yourselves by the faith God has given us,” Romans 12:3. Honestly evaluate your capabilities according to the gifts God has given you. Are you taking on too much? Are you spreading yourself too thin? Recognizing your limitations is not a weakness; it’s a sign of wisdom.

Talk to God. Before making any significant decisions, turn to God in prayer. Seek His wisdom and direction. James 1:5 says, “If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking.”

Search the scriptures. The Bible offers countless insights into making wise choices. It provides truth, principles, and examples to guide our decisions.

Set realistic expectations. Rather than aiming for the summit in one leap, break down large goals into smaller, achievable steps. This gradual approach helps prevent overwhelm and builds confidence.

Learn to say no. It’s okay to decline additional responsibilities if your plate is already full. Prioritizing your commitments and saying “no” when necessary is essential for avoiding take on things that will result in your being “in over your skis.”

Get some feedback first. It’s important to have a few well-nurtured relationships in life with godly, wise people you can turn to for advice when needed. Don’t hesitate to bounce ideas off others you can trust before launching out into something you may quickly regret. Sometimes, others will see potential pitfalls you didn’t or may more honestly see what you’re considering is beyond your capacity at the moment.

WHEN IT’S TOO LATE AND YOU’RE IN TROUBLE
If you’ve already found yourself in over your skis, it’s time to take action:

Stop and assess. Take a moment to breathe and clear your mind. Evaluate the situation calmly and identify the specific areas causing stress.

Prioritize. Determine which tasks are essential and which can be delegated or postponed. Create a list and categorize tasks based on urgency and importance.

Communicate. Be honest and transparent with those involved about your situation. Asking for help or extending deadlines can alleviate pressure and build trust.

Break it down. Divide overwhelming tasks into smaller, manageable steps. For example, if you have a large project, break it down into daily or weekly goals.

Seek support. Reach out to mentors, colleagues, or friends who can offer guidance and assistance. Sometimes, an outside perspective can provide valuable insights.

Simplify. Eliminate unnecessary commitments or tasks to reduce your workload.

LEARN FROM THE EXPERIENCE
Once you’ve managed to regain your footing, it’s crucial to reflect on what led to the situation. Identify the factors that contributed to being in over your skis. This self-awareness will help you establish boundaries and avoid similar situations in the future. Consider journaling or discussing your experiences with a trusted friend to gain clarity and perspective.

Remember, it’s okay to admit when you’re overwhelmed. Seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. By taking proactive steps to manage stress and regain control, you can navigate challenging times with greater resilience.

Scotty