Times are tough, no doubt about it. It is during times such as this that we are challenged at our very core. As some of us get swept up in the negativity, we begin to shift in ways that are far from good. It often starts subtly, like bad behaviors that creep back in. Those things we thought we had worked through, rear their ugly heads again. We start eating poorly and sleeping becomes a challenge. We obsess over the things we would never have given importance to when things were great. Sometimes we even see ourselves shifting and feel as though someone else is controlling us. We begin to pick fights with loved ones and argue over the smallest decisions. So what do you do about it? How do you maintain your sanity when there is so much to deal with out there?
First, you need to come to terms with the fact that things are always shifting and changing. Then you need to decide what things do you need to let go of so you can move forward? What do I mean by that? There are always behaviors, attitudes, thoughts, even relationships that may no longer be serving you. So ask yourself – “What do I need to let go of in order to continue moving forward?” Keep in mind, that as you let things go you will begin to feel lighter, freer and less susceptible to the negativity around you. Once you’ve got that taken care of, make a list of things you enjoy doing and go do them. Things that give you peace of mind and energy. It can be anything from listening to music to taking up a new hobby or volunteering. Whatever it is, it needs to be meaningful to you.
So to recap, your 3 steps for getting through these times are:
- Change is constant, so embrace it.
- Let go of things that no longer serve you (I let go of watching the news – too depressing).
- Start doing something that gives you energy (I started exercising and reading).
Don’t worry about dialing this in right away, you may need to try different things before you get to a balanced state of being, where you are the peace amidst all the chaos.
Leave comments about what you’ve let go of or have started doing, to help give others ideas!
