Tips to Survive and Thrive During These Uncertain Times
Social Distance Yourself from Negativity:
Limit the amount of news you consume. Although it can be very informative, it's also very fear-based. Having the news on 24 hours a day is going to feed into that fear. This is about protecting yourself mentally and emotionally from too much negative information.
Use This Time to be Productive and Creative:
Research shows that we're actually more innovative when we are alone. This could be a great time to have those break-through ideas and enhance your problem-solving skills. I’m personally using this time to creatively incorporate social media and online platforms into the work I do.
Be Wise to Social Media:
A lot of what you find online is misinformation. Everyone is currently posting theories and hearsay about COVID-19, which only amplifies people’s confusion and anxiety. It's important to know the source of your information as well as recognize the difference between fact and opinion. Stick to reputable sources like the CDC.gov and WHO.int.
Avoid Panic Buying:
When you go out shopping, try not to become infected by other people's panic. Many people overreact and make poor decisions under heightened states of stress, such as buying 1000 rolls of toilet paper. To keep yourself focused on buying only what you need, create a list ahead of time and stick to it. This will help you maintain calmness and clarity.
Stay Socially Connected Even while Socially Distant:
As humans, we are genetically predisposed to be social. Take this time to connect with family and friends whom you've been meaning to chat with but have been putting off. Just make sure those in your communication circle are not adding negativity and unnecessary fear into your life.
Focus on What You Can Control:
We often experience anxiety and stress when we feel like our life is spinning out of control. Focus on creating new routines to adapt to your new lifestyle so you can maintain a sense of personal power. Make a list of 5 activities and follow it daily. For example: journaling, meditating, exercising, eating healthy, and decluttering.
Add Value to Your Life:
Do the things you always said you wanted to do but had no time for. With nearly everything available online and through the mail, there’s literally nothing you can’t achieve. Take an on-line class. Learn to play the guitar. Study another language.
