I know some of you are working more than ever as essential workers - we appreciate you SO MUCH. But I also know many of us are spending A LOT more time at home and you may be feeling “off.” Maybe you’ve thought “How many more days will I feel this way?” “I’m really scared.” “I feel hopeless.” “Boredom will be the death of me.” “What’s the point in getting ready when we’re stuck at home for the foreseeable future?” “STOP TOUCHING YOUR FACE!” “What is my purpose now?” “I need a break.” All of these thoughts (plus a million others) have been running through my head over the last few weeks and I’m sure I’m not the only one who has felt lonely, hopeless, fearful, bored, and worthless.
One thing I’ve learned and have become very aware of during this time of social distancing and isolation is how much my thoughts dictate my actions. If I start the day thinking it will be a good day, that I’ll be productive, and that I have a purpose and am worthy...odds are that it will be a GOOD day. But if I start the day with negativity, and no motivation to do anything… man oh man are those days HARD.
So here are five quick tips that I have found to be helpful in starting your day off on a positive note:
1. Spend time with God and identify something you’re grateful for.
Dedicate time (as little as five minutes) in His word and in prayer to start your day off on the right foot. I have a special spot in my house where I go and sit down with coffee and my bible and start the day off with Him. Setting my mind on him first helps me shift my mindset. Give yourself grace with this if it’s something you’re not used to doing and you miss a day. It takes a few weeks to form a habit so now is a great time to try and incorporate this into your routine. We are offering bible reading plans to help get you started if this is new for you. While you’re spending time with God, identify something that you’re grateful for and write it down– it can be as simple as “peace and quiet while drinking my coffee” or “my family’s health during this time.” Gratitude is great for the mind and body.
2. Get ready for the day.
Shower, change out of your pajamas, make your bed, start a load of laundry, unload the dishwasher/make sure the sink is empty. These are a few examples of things that don’t take very long but they go a long way in making you feel better.
3. Make a to-do list for the day.
Have a plan and focus on that throughout the day. At the end of the day, give yourself grace if you don’t complete everything. You can add that to your list of things to do the next day.
4. Check in with yourself
How are you feeling emotionally, spiritually, physically? Practice this throughout the day. If you have kids at home with you, you can do this with them as well. This can help get them with self-awareness and is a great tool to have in their emotional toolbox! If you want to take this a step further, intentionally address an area or areas that you are not feeling your best. This could be done through journaling, adding in more devotional time with your Bible, or even getting outside for a quick walk.
5. Reach out to at least one person outside of your home.
Check in with your family and friends. We are all in this together and are all struggling in one way or another. Adopt the mentality “out of sight but NOT out of mind.”
I know times are tough and we are all off of our normal routine. Be intentional with taking care of you! We are here for you and will try to help you in any way that we can.