If you’re feeling anything like me, it feels like the rug just got yanked right out from underneath you.
It feels a little scary, a little overwhelming and really really confusing. What we’re all experiencing right now is unlike anything any of us have ever experienced before.
And while the information and opinions that are flying around right now can be tricky to filter – one thing’s for sure – we’re all being impacted by COVID-19 in some way.
Because of this, I wanted to share with you some ways that you can weather this, or any other storm, that life sends your way.
7 ways to weather any storm:
1. Remember to breathe. It sounds so simple, and it is which is why it’s at the top of the list. It’s simple, easy to do and it works. Every single time it feels like too much, like you’re getting swept up in the chaos of the world around you, take a deep breath. In through your nose and out through your mouth. Gives you that quick reset to calm everything down. Give it a try – and feel free to take few – whatever you need to slow it down.
2. Get outside. Here in Cleveland the weather’s been so so, but the fresh air and activity works wonders! You could go for a walk, do some rainy day puddle jumping, play basketball, soccer or baseball, look for beach glass, dig in the dirt, even just sitting in the sun when it peaks out from behind those clouds – truly anything at all. It’s also a great time to watch as nature springs back to life – the birds are chirping and making their nests, irises are popping up, the geese and ducks are courting – it’s a good reminder that spring is coming and that you can weather this storm. Every chance you get to be outside, take it!
3. Find purpose. We truly are all in this together – from global pandemics to “normal” everyday life. And right now is a really good reminder of how much you are needed. Simple kindnesses to the grocery clerks and gas attendants, volunteering for your local food bank, running errands or dropping off food for your 65+ neighbor – every single one of these things matters and makes a difference. Look for ways to support, connect and inspire the people around you.
4. Be productive. Declutter, organize, read. Do the things on your to do list that you’re usually too busy to do. Paint your mailbox, declutter your closet, clean out the garage, reorganize your book shelves, take an online course to improve your life, learn a new language or try some new recipes – think about all of those things you’d like to get to someday. Now’s your chance.
It’ll help you to feel a little more in control with so much in life feeling out of control right now, and once life does get back to “normal,” there’ll be fewer distractions. So you’ll have more time, energy and attention to focus on the things that matter to you the most!
5. Focus on the positive. Life is stressful right now – whether you’re going in to work each day, recently laid off, a business owner, retired – whatever your situation is, there is some level of stress in it. And there is also good there too. Look for the good. See what is working in your life and put some attention to it. You don’t have to ignore the challenges – they’re there. But it is important to see the positives too. It all coexists together and it’s important to see, and really acknowledge, that.
6. Bring it back to basics. When life gets chaotic, the best thing you can do is to strip it down to the essentials. Focus on taking great care of yourself, on staying calm, grounded and centered so that you truly can handle whatever life throws your way. Food, water, rest, movement, connection, laughter and gratitude – these are the 7 basics of self care. Think about how you want to feel (for example calm) and then look at how each of those 7 basics can help you to feel that way. Over on Instagram I’m sharing some of the ways I’m doing this.
7. Change. Right now, we’re all in a forced point of change. Take advantage of this opportunity – you know how hard it can be to change without that outside force pushing you. If life’s stressful (or has been for awhile) refocus your attention on what matters to you the most and start to strip as many distractions as you can away (ie. less phone time, delegate cleaning or other chores, say yes to fewer things). To help with this, ask yourself, “after this is over, in what ways will I be different? What lessons am I learning right now and how will I integrate these lessons into my everyday life?”
Not only will this help you to weather this storm, but once you’re on the other side, it’ll help you to live your life in a way that feels much more aligned with who you are and what you want.
As hard as it seems right now, and as hard as it may get – remember that you are stronger than you realize and you truly can handle anything that life throws your way.
If you’d like some guidance, support and accountability with applying this info to you and your life, the Happiness Happens Masterclass can help. It’s perfect for a times likes this, and I’d love for you to join me!
Emily