It may feel at times that it’s challenging to remain optimistic. We’re living in uncharted times with rising COVID-19 cases, election uncertainty, and anticipating changes in traditional family gatherings during the holidays. The unknowns can weigh heavy. You’re not alone if you’re experiencing trouble sleeping, feeling impatient or anxious, or having difficulty concentrating.
Every-day coping strategies can help in the moment and long-term to strengthen resilience.
Self-care tips
- Start each day with gratitude. Start a gratitude journal. Send a note of appreciation to a co-worker, family member or friend. Identify three things you are grateful for before getting out of bed in the morning.
- Focus on those things you can control. Use the Circles of Influence tool to identify and make a plan. Maintain a routine. Limit social and news consumption if it’s causing stress. Breathe. Learn something new. Eat healthy foods.
- Make it a priority to take time to recharge. Build in breaks during the day. Get outside, go for a walk, try relaxation techniques like meditation. Talk with a friend. Engage in activities refresh your energy and spirit. Set boundaries. Talk to your manager about taking a day off to spend time doing something you love.
When interacting with others
- Assume best intent. Give people the benefit of the doubt. Reflect the positive. Be respectful of differing opinions.
- Practice patience. Listen and reflect back to minimize misunderstanding. Look for common ground. Watch for fight or flight reactions to emotionally charged situations. Be aware of your own emotional state.
- Connect. Reach out to a coworker, family member or friend to check in. A simple text message expressing you care is uplifting for both the sender and receiver.
If you need to talk, contact an Intermountain resource including EAP (801-442-3509), the Emotional Health Relief Hotline (833-442-2211), or Intermountain chaplaincy (801-357-8781). Find more resources.
No one is immune to stressors of everyday life. Simple choices can help to build resilience and enjoy the journey ahead.
How do you build resiliency? Leave a comment and share your ideas.