Scrolling through our social feeds RN it’s hard to avoid the countless posts celebrating the end of lockdown; the long-anticipated summer getaways, social reunions, festivals and nights out. However, if the idea of going back to “normality” makes you feel a little uneasy, you aren’t alone!
Today we are going to share ways you can mentally prepare for the uncertain months ahead, and help you to fight those anxious thoughts preventing you from living your best life. Don’t worry, we’ve got you babe.
Build Your Confidence Gradually
There’s no need to jump into the deep end. After spending so many months in isolation with our only source of human interaction being a work Zoom call or the occasional supermarket trip (the new out-out), it’s no wonder we’re all feeling a little…Awks. Try taking baby steps towards building back your self-confidence and becoming more comfortable with social interaction. Start by setting yourself small, achievable tasks – this could include getting outside for some daily exercise, rekindling an old hobby, or simply grabbing a coffee with a close friend. Whatever will help to push you outside your comfort zone.
Celebrating these small wins will remind you that you’re still 100% in control of the situation, and there’s no pressure to make any drastic changes to your routine.
Be Kind To Yourself
It’s no secret that lockdown has been super challenging for our mental health. It’s important that we give ourselves plenty of time to rest, unwind, and practise some serious self-care in order to create a positive mindset going forward. This can take a bit of practice, but the more you do it, the more confident you will feel, so dedicate at least an hour of each day to some me-time.
Make sure you are getting plenty of sleep, and if you find yourself meaninglessly scrolling on social media or constantly comparing yourself to others, ensure you limit your screen-time to a minimum.
Put a face mask on, your fave #girlboss anthem on loop, and…relax!
Focus On the Present
Lockdown has caused a lot of us to feel uncertain about the future and how our lives will change when restrictions lift. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you focus too much on the “what ifs”, whether it’s returning to work, university, managing finances or relationships, the list goes on. Instead of worrying about tomorrow, try practising mindfulness by living in the present moment.
Focusing on the present means appreciating the little things that make our daily lives special. Whether it be our morning coffee, our daily walk, or enjoying our favourite meal with loved ones. Celebrate your small achievements day-to-day and quit the self-sabotage.
It’s amazing to have big dreams doll, but don’t let the pressure kill your vibe! You’ve got this.
Write It Down
Keeping a self-help journal or personal diary is a great way of managing your anxiety. Getting your feelings down on paper can help to organise your thoughts, track your progress, and harness your nervous energy into something more creative and productive.
Start your day by writing down some good ol’ positive self-talk, anything you are currently worried about, and a couple of specific goals you would like to achieve by the end of the day.
Manifest, manifest, manifest!
Talk To Someone You Trust
Bottling up our negative emotions is an unhealthy habit that we are leaving behind us in 2021. Although at first it might seem a little daunting to open up about your anxiety, remember that sharing your concerns with a family member or close friend can really help to put things into perspective and build a supportive network.
After all, sometimes a little pep talk and a hug is exactly what we need to help us feel better.
Remember doll, you are never alone. If you feel your anxiety isn’t improving or getting worse, it’s really important that you seek advice from a healthcare professional or mental health counsellor.