Life in the 21st Century is not always that easy. There are a lot of demands on your time, energy levels and mental ability daily.
Sometimes you get so entangled in all the demands from the people around you, your work and your lifestyle that you forget about the most important person who you must worry about… yourself. And, no it’s not selfish to look after yourself properly, it’s crucial for your survival.
Six must-have coping skills
Distraction:
Give your heart and mind a break from your busy schedule, especially when you are under stress. Make the time to listen to some music, read a good book, do a puzzle, do some arts and crafts or learn something new. It is great for short term relief.
Grounding:
Ever heard someone say you have to stop and smell the roses? Well, that is exactly what grounding entails. You must stop, just for a moment, maybe a few minutes or even better, a few hours a week. Use the time to walk barefoot on the grass, play with some clay, do yoga, pray or do exercise. All these grounding activities will help you to focus better afterwards and it will reduce feelings of anxiety.
Emotional Release:
You must give attention to your emotions regularly. Some people think that expressing your emotions is a sign of weakness, when in fact, it’s a sign of great psychological strength. Don’t let fear and anger build up, get rid of it physically by yelling, screaming or running. Try a cold shower, let yourself cry or watch something really funny and laugh until your sides hurt. Letting off emotional steam releases the pressure of overwhelming emotions and will make you feel much better.
Self-love
In today’s fast-pace world where everybody is so entangled in their own schedules, you can end up feeling alone or you can fall into the trap of guilt and shame because you feel that you are not good enough. That’s where the coping skill of self-love comes in handy. Spoil yourself with an extra long shower, cook your favourite meal or buy yourself a small treat. It’s important that you become your own best friend and supporter. Above all, stop being so hard on yourself.
Thought challenge
In my opinion the most important of all. Help yourself to change your thought patterns by writing down negative thoughts and then list all the reasons that these thoughts may not be true. This can help you to change negative thinking habits into positive thinking.
Reaching out
Sometimes the best thing you can do for yourself, is to reach out and help others. Just smiling at others randomly in a shopping mall or giving someone else a chance to stand in front of you at the supermarket, can make you feel better and you can make another person’s day. Pay it forward. Be kind. This will remind you that everyone has value and that purpose can be found in small things too. Above all, remember to enjoy your life, it’s the most precious gift you will ever have.
