Resilience is a Superpower
We need all the resilience we can muster in these challenging times.
Our local newspaper recently ran a helpful article on resilience (Carolyn Jones, SF Chronicle, 5/17/20).
Some of the tips you’ve probably heard before, such as exercising, being outdoors, and limiting news intake.
Here are the other tips:
Practice self-compassion. Be extra kind to yourself. These are challenging times and you are doing your best.
Relish moments of joy. Joy is one of the best things we can do for our minds, bodies, and spirits. Create moments of joy throughout your day and savor them.
Keep a resilience journal. “Every day, reflect on something you did to overcome a difficulty.” Write about times in the past when you went through challenges and how you overcame them.
Find meaningful engagement. Make a list of people you want to see. Make plans to connect with them online or in person if you can. Talk about subjects other than the pandemic and worries about the future.
Celebrate small wins. Lower the bar for what you consider a win and celebrate every success.
Make short-term plans. Worrying about the unpredictable future can create a lot of stress. Instead, focus your planning on the next day or two, or even just the next few hours.
Reach out to old friends. This can be an opportunity to reconnect.
Work-life balance. Even if you’re working at home, have transitions between work time and home life. Create a routine.
Remember that nothing lasts forever. This includes the current circumstances and any painful emotions you may be experiencing. Even if you’re not feeling great today, tomorrow can be better.
Growth. There is a new concept in psychology called post-traumatic growth. “Those who’ve endured trauma often say they learned to be more grateful, deepened their relationships with friends and family, and learned to focus on parts of their life that are going well.”
What is helping you be resilient in this challenging time? Send an email to liz@happybrainlife.com and let me know.
Please take good care of your precious self. Our world needs you!
Hugs,
Liz
