Keeping a Positive Mindset During Tough Times

We can all agree that 2020 has brought unprecedented challenges, with much of it being out of our control. The coronavirus pandemic has changed every aspect of daily life, from home and health to education and social activities.

If you feel frustrated or angry because of so much uncertainty, you’re in good company. Many others feel the same way, especially in areas where COVID-19 cases are rising, according to the American Psychological Association (APA).

The APA is tracking how Americans are coping with the extreme stress during the pandemic and publishing special reports every few months called Stress in America^TM  2020: Stress in the Time of COVID-19.

What will 2021 look like when so much is unknown month to month?

We won’t know until it arrives. While it’s entirely valid to feel apprehensive and pessimistic at times, there are steps you can take to go into the new year with an improved outlook that’s open to possibility and opportunity.

Looking Ahead With Confidence

Here are 10 tips for coping with stress and trying to stay positive:

1. Be Kind to Yourself

Realize that everybody responds differently to stressful situations according to their personal conditions and life experiences. Also, realize that you are not alone: The changes that happened throughout the COVID-19 pandemic as well as the necessary steps necessary to contain the spread of this virus affected everybody, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises.

2. Take Time to Reflect on Successes

Concentrate on what you’ve achieved by maintaining a diary, the APA urges. Write about previous challenges you have overcome, things you did helped and strategies which may enhance your ability to deal the second time life throws you a curveball.

3. Learn Something New

Creating new skills and expanding your understanding in areas which interest you’re an exceptional method to move lifestyle and distract yourself . Try out an online continuing education course for professional development or just for fun to find out something new.

Coursera offers classes from top universities and businesses on a huge array of subjects, including many free of charge. As an instance, “The Science of Well-Being” supplied by Yale University will engage you in a series of challenges designed to enhance pleasure and construct more productive customs.

MasterClass provides paid courses taught by leading specialists in fields such as culinary arts, arts, business, science and engineering, creative writing, and photography.

4. Take Breaks From the News

Assessing the information or societal websites can be upsetting, ” the CDC says. Decide how long you would like to spend getting current from reputable sources and follow your strategy.

5. Prioritize

Create an inventory of your own personal, family and professional priorities, then use them as cornerstones to direct you as you produce a to-do listing. Group the tasks based on those you have to finish, those you are able to assign to others and people you can postpone. A shorter, brighter and more attainable to-do list is much less stressful than feeling as though what’s an urgent, high priority.

6. Control What You Can

Do not dwell on things you can not control. Sticking to a regular can offer a feeling of normalcy and help you keep confident in uncertain times. Simple things such as putting on work clothing, even when you’re working at home, can help.

7. Find Perspective

At times you might have unrealistic expectations and be tough on yourself for not handling life nicely. 1 approach to prevent this negativity trap would be to consider what you’d say to a fantastic buddy to help them feel much more positive and positive. You deserve to benefit from the exact same advice.

8. Stay Connected

Stay in contact with friends and discuss strategies for staying motivated. While social bookmarking steps are set up, you can link with family members and friends in free internet video calls via Zoom, Skype and Google Meet.

9. Take Care of Your Body

The CDC says that these healthy activities help combat stress and enhance overall well-being:

• Eat healthy, well-balanced meals
• Exercise regularly
• Get a good night’s sleep
• Stretch and take deep breaths

10. Seek Professional Help

If you’re having difficulty staying positive and optimistic, there’s no shame in seeking professional help. Mental health is an essential part of overall health and well-being, affecting how we think, feel, act, handle stress and relate to others. You can also check hug ring.

Putting Your Whole Health First: Body, Mind and Spirit

Your mental health matters every day. But right now, you may need a little more TLC mentally and emotionally — and that’s fine.