Have you ever felt overwhelmed? Drained and exhausted from all the burden and responsibilities you are carrying?

The proverb “When the sky is falling, let someone else taller than you hold it” is a humorous and practical piece of wisdom often attributed to Chinese folklore.

It means that not every problem is yours to solve and not every burden should rest on your shoulders. When you are facing a crisis, you may feel that the “sky is falling”. Remember that there may be people who are:

• Better equipped
• More experienced
• In a stronger position
• More responsible for addressing the issue

Rather than exhausting yourself trying to carry every burden, recognize when it makes sense to rely on others who are better positioned to help.

You do not need to be the hero or savior in every situation. Choose to be humble. While this might be the moment that your initiative can differentiate you, and you may feel it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, remember that when it is – you will not be feeling exhausted, overwhelmed or feeling the pain of bearing responsibility. It would come naturally to you. You step into the role, not step up to the role.

Communities, families, organizations and even countries function best when responsibilities are distributed according to people’s strengths. Learn to understand and appreciate each other’s strengths and gain their commitment to jointly address the issue at hand. While it may seem hard at first, but it works out long term.

Worrying about problems beyond your influence can drain your energy. Direct your efforts where you can make a meaningful difference. Sometimes it can be just to eat healthy meals, exercise regularly & sleep well, and taking care of those around you. Keep your skills active, and know when and where to use them as needed.

Realize when you need to share your burdens with others, like in a family or organization, where you are not the only one responsible to save it from failing. If you find yourself in such a situation, realize that there is something else bigger that is failing, than what you are responsible for, and that requires someone higher than you to shoulder it.

So, when you are having challenges defining boundaries for yourself, in your role, at home, at work or overall in your life, remember – Not every falling sky is yours to hold up. Focus on what is in YOUR control to do, to act and let things unfold the way they would happen without your involvement. Sometimes wisdom is knowing which burdens belong to you and which belong to someone taller.

While it is a lighthearted proverb, but it carries an important message about perspective, boundaries, and the wise use of one’s energy. When you choose your burdens wisely, you will realize you have all the strength within to carry them without feeling exhausted or overwhelmed.