Have you ever felt yourself emotionally go backwards? Lately, it seems like everything I have been trying to achieve has been put on pause. This being said I am actively working not to slip into my old version of survival mode. The new strategy is to not let myself say, “I’ll do it later.” 

Later is just an excuse for me to put something off because I don’t feel like doing it at the moment. The sooner I start something the quicker it gets done, and productivity helps me feel useful.

Another way to help with feeling like I’m letting negative thoughts overwhelm me is whenever I get bored or can’t decide what I want to do I work out.

I start with a 30-minute session. Then if it still continues during the day I’ll do 20-minute sessions. The workouts help me focus so I can figure out the next step in my day. Working out isn’t for everyone though so my advice is to take the time you would spend sitting there to do something you find calming. Read a book, write in a journal,  or find a new band you like. It’s okay to take a breath.

We are going into our third year of an international public health crisis. It feels like every social movement of the last four decades is happening at once. Give yourself the grace to take a minute. You are surviving, that’s all that matters. Naps can be productive too. 

You woke up today, and that means the day is yours to do as you please. Responsibilities need to happen most likely, but take 30 seconds to see what you need. Then fit those needs in wherever you can. If you feel yourself going backwards just focus on what you can do. Use the knowledge you have from going backwards to figure out a new way to move forward.

Featured photo by Pexels courtesy of Pixabay