Being Your Best Self in this crazy, mixed up, upside down world
Intentionally engaging in positive thoughts and self care help us combat the anxiety we are all feeling right now. Being your best self in this crazy, mixed up, upside down world is our best strategy for coping. Here is what sets me up for success right now.
- Intentionally focus and act on positive emotions. Know what brings you joy and be ready to focus on it when you feel anxious. For me it’s taking a walk or a bike ride. Being outdoors gives me a sense of well being.
- Connections matter to us. We have all been experiencing Zoom Happy Hour and family bike rides. Reach out to others to connect by Facetime or Facebook Messenger to see faces and chat. There is so much to connect about and share with family and friends.
- We have learned new technologies this week that bring us closer together. Seeing so many schools teach by technology have taught parents and kids new ways to connect and learn. Colleagues are working remotely and collaboratively. Learning new technology will always be a part of our lives.
- Learn about the ways we have conquered past health challenges. We have brilliant researchers at work right now, just like in the past.
- Create a daily schedule for you and your family. Start your day with exercise and lemon water. End your day with getting to bed on time. Predictable schedules and routines anchor us.
- Declutter, get organized and share your blessings with others. Go from space to space to edit what you have not been using or needing. You can use GiveBackBoxes.com to send items using your Amazon boxes. (Donate wisely.)
- Giving back makes a difference. I was moved to see this cell phone choir. Everyone sharing their gifts, talents and skills. Where can you make a difference today? I have created a new series of YouTube posts to help you declutter, tackle paper clutter and more.
- Resetting and rejuvenating is good. Take time for sitting, thinking, listening and relaxing. It’s an ideal opportunity for strategic thinking for personal and business goals
Gratitude fills my days. I am always practicing gratitude and affirming the good around and in us. I am grateful for the privilege of being able to work from home during this time and share tips for work at home. I see love, laughter and connection with you, family and friends on social media.
Thank you for being such a positive force in this trying time. I appreciate your tips and thoughts on how to best “get through.” Up here in CT, it feels like it will never end. I agree that gratitude is key, we have to be intentional about it. It really does help shift our mindset away from despair and onto the many blessings that are all around us!
Yes, we have to be knowledgeable about the phases of our next steps. There are 5 steps to the finish line of a pandemic. We are in step 2. It’s up to us to be realistic and optimistic at the same time.
Like you, I’m a believer in seeking the positive in life- be it pandemic times or not. And all of the strategies that you shared, like spending time in nature, connecting with friends and family, and practicing intentional gratitude, are helpful ways of being. The flip side is that people are experiencing a lot of pain, stress, anxiety, and hardship. They are losing their jobs, having food insecurity, losing loved ones, and many other heart-wrenching circumstances. I can’t negate the suffering
As a counterbalance, I engage in positive strategies, as you described. I also do meditation and yoga. But in addition, I gift myself time to feel the sadness, retreat when I need to, and not insist that I have to be maximally productive every day. I offer myself (and others) much needed grace.
Yes, there is much to be said for self care at these times!