Although this video was recorded in March of 2020, the message still applies today. Even when we aren’t dealing with a global pandemic, we will still encounter unexpected changes and a shifting of our normal in this life.
Sudden changes can leave you feeling scattered and disoriented. Your thoughts can race to the future or ruminate on your longing for the past. (If this is you, listen to my guided meditation to bring you back to the present.)
When things aren’t normal we cannot behave as though they are, which means it is important to take the time to reset our expectations of ourselves, our work, and the situation we all presently find ourselves in. Failing to reset our expectations can lead us to put pressure on ourselves to continue in our normal everyday activities in the way we usually would. As a result, we can end up feeling stressed, guilty, or angry with ourselves and our present circumstances.
Take these simple steps to help you reset expectations and be resilient in the face of this challenge:
- Ask yourself: What is working here, and what just isn’t?
Start by taking a breath, and take a personal inventory of what you’re trying to force to happen in this time that’s preventing you from accomplishing what is actually most important right now. Trying to continue with “business as usual” could leave you feeling scattered, frustrated, disorganized, and unable to accomplish what actually matters.
- Experiment with your “new normal” to create a new routine.
It may take some time to figure out a new routine, but it’s okay to take time to experiment! Personally, I like an early start to the morning. Most days I’ve gotten my son ready and dropped off at school and am in the office by 7:30. However, I’m learning that getting up early like I normally would and going about my day trying to be as productive as possible isn’t working for me. Right now, most of my day is dedicated to being available to help my son with school. Lately, I’ve been far more productive at night, which means I have to give myself permission to get up a little later. Give yourself permission to do things differently than normal, and take the time that you have to start new rhythms of daily life.
- Practice self-care.
Because there’s more stress, self-care is super important. Rest, drink plenty of water, get outside and go for a walk. Remember, exercise isn’t always something that’s intense. It’s just getting up and getting moving. So if you’re able, take a walk, jump rope in your backyard with your kids, or do some yoga in your living room. Find a way to get your body moving because it’s good mentally, emotionally, and physically and it’s critical that we do what we can to remain healthy right now.
Coach Yourself with these Questions:
What do I need right now?
What will help me to feel cared for?
How do I need to adjust my expectations of myself and my circumstances in this season?
