Eight months ago, we definitely did not think that we would still be here managing COVID-19 related stressors. I remember when things shut down in March in Connecticut we anticipated that it would be a two-week shut down and then back to “normal” on some level. Clearly that was not the case and now nearly 8 months later there are still people working from home, without work, managing finances, trying to manage social distancing and school. Lately, I have been noticed an increase in stress due to upcoming holidays and school changes that have everyone on their toes. Today we will explore some ways to help yourself stay grounded during a time that is anything but.
Communicate your boundaries
Boundaries can be tricky, however, add in mask wearing, social distancing, holiday plans and get togethers and it makes it challenging to know how to set boundaries that feel appropriate to you. Something that you may have been okay with in the past may not feel okay now and that is absolutely fine. Ask yourself what your rules are for social engagements and offer up alternatives for something that fits your boundaries. This can help ease some anxious feelings and help you be present. If your rule for yourself if that you only socialize with close relationships outdoors and someone asks to meet at a favorite restaurant, perhaps suggesting bringing snacks to a meet up at a local park to sit outside instead. Clarifying your rules for yourself beforehand can make it easier to know how to engage with others in ways that you feel comfortable with. Once you are clear with yourself, it allows you to be clear with others. Having conversation with others about their boundaries regarding mask wearing and social distancing can help you enjoy your time together.
Plan one week at a time
As someone who enjoys planning this is something that does not come naturally to me. In the past, planning for the future was something that felt a little more predictable. With changing school schedules, work schedules, layoffs etc. there are many changes that are making it hard to plan ahead very far. While it can help us with motivation to have something to look forward to, planning too far in advance can leave us feeling stressed and out of control. Focusing on short term plans and goals can help us stay motivated while keeping us present, and focused on what we can control.
Focus on what you can control
While there is always a decent amount of uncertainty in life, there are many aspects that feel more out of control in this time than ever before. By focusing on what we can control, we take away from of the additional stress that is optional. This frees up our energy to focus on the larger aspects of life. Look for those areas that you can simplify and that have an easy solution and get those things out of the way.
Have a morning meeting
With kids engaging in remote learning, adults working from home, individuals spending more time in the house, and so much more there are many more people using the same space for so many different things. This can be overwhelming and at times feel like there is a lack of privacy. Plan a morning meeting to get an idea of everyone’s schedule and breaks for the day. Plan times to check in with one another and talk about if you have any meetings that might be important. While this does not avoid all conflict, and is not always realistic, if you can plan to go for a run while your partner has a break in their work day to spend time with the kids and help with their math lesson and vice versa this may allow for some more organization, motivation and goal setting for the day. It can also be a nice time for connection if it becomes part of the rituals and routines of the family.
Listen to your body
This will always be on my list for managing any type of stressor. Listening to yourself and your body and responding to your needs is one of the most important skills that we can develop. Some days you will be productive and feel relatively normal and adjusted and other days may be more challenging. Listen to what you need. Get outside when you feel like you need space. Allow yourself to have an unproductive day at work because you cannot focus on another Zoom meeting. Cook your favorite meals. Do activities you love. Communicate and connect with loved ones. This time is challenging and taxing on your body. You are not alone. Listen to your body and your mind.
While these tips are not a solution by any means they may be helpful in managing various stressors that continue to come up. Let us know down below your tips and tricks or things that you have found helpful. Happy Sunday! I hope a beautiful week awaits you.
Mind-Body-Connection 