For many, the start of a new decade presented a perfect opportunity to turn a new leaf, whether that meant starting school, graduating from college/university, starting a new business, or travelling more. The last thing we needed, let alone expected was a curveball…a global curveball that led the world to a standstill. There is no doubt that this has left us with a mix of emotions that loom around us, more so with the uncertainty that still lies ahead.
The end of the year is fast approaching, and I am sure many of you are starting to self- reflect on what a year 2020 has been – the accomplishments, the pitfalls, lest we forget the COVID-19 pandemic that has clearly made itself comfortable. As much as technology has enabled us to adapt to our “new” way of life virtually – i.e. working from home, home-schooling and connecting with others, it has also created room for loneliness and isolation given our limited personal and face-to-face connections.
The question stands: how does one stay grounded, connected and level-headed during these challenging times? Here are some tips:
Acknowledge that this is a worldwide situation and you are not alone – we are all navigating it together.
It is important to focus on what is within your control such as prioritizing your health, mental health and wellbeing. Take caution where necessary such as practicing social distancing to protect yourself and those around you. Limit the amount of news updates you read/watch if this is something that makes you anxious.
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Set a routine that fits your needs.
When possible, take time to plan out your day or week accordingly as this will help you stay on top of your activities, deadlines, plans, etc. For those of you who are visual (or forgetful) you could always create your own schedule, download templates or use the reminder app on your phone. Whatever you do, remember to be practical and have fun with it.
Recognize your feelings.
Identify your triggers and acknowledge how they make you feel as this will dictate your intervention. You could write them down, talk to someone, take breaks between your day, go for a walk, or practice mindfulness and meditation. Take time to incorporate self-care strategies into your routine. Remember that this is beyond facials and massages, but rather more of what fills you up than drains you out. Some apps to check out include Aura, Headspace and Calm. There are also mindfulness and meditation guides on YouTube and Pinterest.
Re-adjust your expectations.
For those of you who had set goals for the end of the year, understand that these are unusual circumstances so do not beat yourself up if they are not accomplished. This does not mean you have to eliminate them, but rather know that it is okay to re-evaluate and focus on what is realistic and achievable.
Stay Connected!
This is where your creative side comes out. You could plan virtual events, call or text a friend, send pictures to keep up on what’s happening with one another. Free online platforms such as Zoom, Skype, Google Hangouts can be used to have video chats or play games. Remember, you could always drive-by to see a friend while maintaining social distancing. It’s the little things that make a difference.
Ultimately, go to your happy place.
Whether it is making your favourite cuppa tea or coffee, catching up on an episode of your favourite show, snuggling up with a good read, calling up a friend or loved one, going to the farm, working out, cooking up a storm, taking a drive, being creative with a DIY task or treating yourself to your favourite dessert – only you can decide what makes you happy so focus on those good vibes and show up for yourself.
Stacey Karuhanga is a registered Social Worker in Canada. She holds a Master’s degree in Social Work (MSW), specializing in Mental Health and Health. She has experience working with infants, children and youth who have emotional, behavioural and social difficulties. Additionally, she has worked with adults living with mental illness and concurrent disorders. Stacey currently works as a Child and Family Therapist.
