COVID cases are rising, kiddos are headed back to school, and some of us are either back in the office for the first time in over a year, or recently got the news we need to go back. It’s like a stress sandwich! We’ve been riding a wave of stress and worry for so long that you’d think we’d be pros at combating the unknown and instability of it all.
But we’re not. Because while some stress can motivate us to make changes, chronic stress isn’t good for our mind or body. You know this. I know this. And while there can be some very profound and positive impacts hard times can have on us, in order for us to get to the point of seeing the positive, we need to continue working on our mindset with almost a relentless pursuit.
Start with asking yourself a few questions like: what are my immediate and short-term goals? How would I like to go back to work? What would be a win for the school year? What’s within my control to change? What do I have zero control over? When life is up in the air and outcomes are uncertain, knowing what you can change, what you can’t, and what your ideal situation looks like is vital.
Focus on that ideal. If we are constantly thinking and talking to others about all of the negative and endless possibilities of wrong, statistically, things are more apt to go wrong. Fill your mind with what can go right, or what life would look like if everything went the way you wanted it to. This practice can help reset your mindset and help you be more aware of opportunities and wins.
Celebrate your wins. When something goes right, take a moment to cherish it. Give yourself a pedicure or manicure, read a new book or grab the latest copy of your favorite magazine, take a bubble bath, light that special candle you’ve been saving, or pick up a fresh bouquet. Anything that honors the positive aspects of your life.
Difficulty and opportunity are close companions and one rarely goes anywhere without the other, so focusing on your mindset and what you can control are essential to your overall wellbeing.
