How can life be so uncomfortable when you’re curled up on your couch? If you’re feeling anxious and nervous while adjusting to a new way of studying, working, and living, you aren’t alone.
Anxiety affects people most when they’re most stressed. So many things are engulfed by uncertainty right now which means people are nervous, worried, and scared. Dealing with heightened anxiety as the world figures out a new normal is difficult, but here are five tips to help you get through:
Keep a Routine
There is very little you can control right now. Take hold of everything you can control. Keeping a typical routine will help keep your mind focused on classes or work. Try waking up at the same time every day and sitting down to complete work when you normally would. Think about a typical eight-to-five day and try to complete your work during this time so you can relax at night. If you work better at night, build your schedule so you have time to work in the evening.
Find a Cozy Space
Although the couch is always tempting, it probably isn’t the best work environment. Creating a space that is comforting yet practical, will help ease those negative or nervous thoughts. Find a place in your home or apartment that makes you smile. It might be a corner of your bedroom or at your dining room table. Wherever it is, set it up so you can feel at ease while putting your worker hat on. Add blankets and pillows – maybe even a diffuser with comforting scents. Spending a little time making your new space practical for you will be well worth it.
Grab your blankets and pillows and make a comfortable place to be productive. Photo by Lorrigan Puls.
Explore New Hobbies
While you’re stuck inside, have some fun! Grab a new book, try a new recipe, or test your dancing skills. Take advantage of this alone time to try something new. Draw a portrait of your dog, knit a blanket, or start an indoor garden. Taking on a new hobby is not only exciting, but it also gives you something to look forward to.
Journal
Set time aside to record this unique, COVID experience. Write down how you’re feeling. Reflect on what you’ve already gotten through. Journaling is a way to let go of anything swimming around in your mind. If you don’t want to, or can’t talk to anyone, writing down your thoughts helps. Plus, you may want to read about this time years down the road. Remember, when we had to stay inside and learn online in 2020? Being able to look back at this crazy time could be a lot of fun in 20 years!
Be a GO-al Getter
Set some goals! They may be long-term or short term. Maybe you set a goal to attend all online classes and meetings, or to a workout in the morning. Choose multiple goals if you want to be ambitious, or stick with one and take it one step at a time. Do what is best for your mental health. Work on being a goal-getter, keep track of your progress and celebrate accomplishments (even the ones you think are little). You can do this!
Take control of this uncertain time. Do what you can to make it easier for you to work. Find your new normal by making some adjustments and adding fun to your schedule. You will get through this, and if you ever need encouragement, think of everyone around the world who is in the same boat. You are not alone – even in isolation.
Sending my best to you,
A fellow anxiety sufferer
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Great Ideas
CHILL, right?