This "new normal" is so very far from anything even approaching normal.
Sure you have followed the advice of experts and implemented a routine that gives you time for work, attempting homeschooling and all that meal prep (oh so much meal prep)... but let's be honest: This new normal is far from ideal.
Most of us are living with an almost constant level of stress - from mild to moderate to freaking-off-the-charts-high-stress. And, over time, this stress can cause very real mental and physical health problems.
I am all about tools. I believe that the more tools you have in your proverbial toolbox, the better able you are to catch, juggle and manage all of the balls life throws at you.
In times like these, we could use a few more coping tools in our life management toolbox.
A very wise therapist friend taught me a simple technique to help negate some of the negative effects of stress. The goal of the exercise is to help you begin to build new habits to perform POSITIVE activities when you are under stress, rather than spending time dwelling in the negative, stress emotions and behaviors (a VERY human response to stress).
YOUR NEW TOOL: STRESS REACTION HABIT LOOP
- Start by making a list of five smallish actions that bring you happiness right now. It might include walking the dog, reading your favorite author, watching you favorite Netflix shows, enjoying a great cup of coffee, or calling a supportive friend. Continue to update your list as you find more things that make you feel better.
- Take your list of things happy actions and place the list in a spot where you can see it every day. Some ideas: bathroom mirror, refrigerator door, medicine cabinet, closet, pantry or underwear drawer.
- Think about how and where you feel stress. Sit for a moment: When you feel stressed, where do you feel it in your body? (Examples: tension in shoulders or neck, stomach pains, headache). Now, list the behaviors you exhibit under stress. (Examples: grouchy, snap at others, cry easily, feel irritable, isolate yourself)
- When you FIRST start to feel stress or observe your stress behaviors (step #3), acknowledge it. (You can say "This is stress. I am feeling stress." It feels silly at first, but it helps. Trust me.)
- Then, as soon as you can, go to that happiness list. DO something on the list.
At first, the exercise feels clunky and it may take some time before you remember to DO step 4 ... but lean in anyway. It gets easier - and you will likely feel better - after just one week of practice. (Imagine how great you can feel after weeks of investment in you!)
For most of us, the hits keep coming all day. So why not experiment with putting a little something back into your metaphorical mental and physical bank account?
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And as always, reach out if you need help and support. Coaching can help you process what is going on and build up your resilience to manage hard situations over the long-term. A small investment today can and will pay big dividends over time.
Once again - #StayHomeifYouCan. #KeepFlatteningTheCurve. Be safe. Be kind. Be well. And, if I can help you lead yourself and others during this time, reach out. (Really - REACH OUT).You are not alone.
Nicole Provonchee
Founder, Bright Blue Consulting
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