It’s hard to be positive right now. Even myself, a true optimist is struggling to see the bright side but now, more than ever, we need to shift our mindset and see the good around us.
Here’s the truth, we can’t predict tomorrow and we most certainly can’t predict when this pandemic will end so it’s important to stop wasting time focusing on the things we can’t change.
You need to focus on the things you can control.
“Keep your face always toward the sunshine—and shadows will fall behind you.”
—Walt Whitman
Here are a few tips to see the joy in today and every day, regardless of the outcome.
Smile List
Create a list of things that make you smile. It can be anything from a hot cup of coffee, the cold side of the pillow, a hug from someone you love, etc. Keep this list close by and read it every day to remind you of the small things that make you happy. Start to incorporate your smile list into your daily life.
For me, my list includes morning snuggles with my cats and husband, frozen gummy candies, sending funny memes with my best friends, pictures of my nephews or a cold glass of ginger ale.
What’s on your smile list?
Breathing techniques
When my anxiety is high, I choose to dial in and readjust my breathing. Thankfully, my smartwatch also notices my stress patterns and reminds me when it’s time to slow down. Try this breathing technique when you’re feeling panicked.
- Breathe in through your nose and watch your belly fill with air. Count slowly to three as you inhale. Hold for one second and then slowly breathe out through your nose as you count to three again.
- Breathe in through your nose and imagine that you’re inhaling peaceful, calm air. Imagine that air spreading throughout your body. As you exhale, imagine that you’re breathing out stress and tension.
Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has real benefits for stress management—it can help you to feel energized, more relaxed, or more present in the moment.
Emerging research suggests certain scents can alter brain wave activity, which is why I’ve created a scent for different activities. I have a work scent (citrus), a breathing scent (evergreen) and a sleep scent (lavender).
Find what works best for you, whether you enjoy candles, diffusers, or body products to incorporate aromatherapy into your day.
Avoid triggers
If you know calling a certain family member will bring you anxiety, avoid it or maybe it’s a particular environment or certain foods. Once you know what your triggers are, you need to avoid them while you try to strengthen your optimism.
The year is coming to a close and as we approach the finish line, don’t be naive and think everything instantly changes as soon as the clock strikes midnight. If you adjust your mindset and adapt to this new way of living, 2021 will be better, regardless of what happens.
Live every moment for today and there will be a better tomorrow, guaranteed.
