Become a ClientCareers

Mindfulness

What To Do When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

Jaclyn Baker
, ,

It’s All About Prioritizing:

Writing out a daily to-do list is a fantastic habit. You just have to learn how to prioritize your tasks appropriately.

Think about it. When you have a 2+ page to-do list, it can be hard to know where to start and where to stop.

Here’s the secret. You have to evaluate what must be completed right away and what can be tackled later on or delegated. A great hack is the ABC method. Label all tasks on your list with either an A, B, or C.

The “A” tasks must be completed before moving onto the “B” tasks. And the “B” tasks must be completed before moving onto the “C” tasks.

At the end of the day, whatever is not complete can be delegated or tackled the next day.

Beware of Multitasking:

Our brains are not programmed to work on multiple projects at once.

When we multitask, we are much more likely to make careless mistakes. It can also be quite emotionally draining and frustrated, which can be very overwhelming.

Take It One Step At A Time:

One of the best ways to achieve a big goal is to break it up into smaller, more realistic goals.

Here’s an example:

Let’s say you’ve never done a pushup before, and you’d love to be able to do 50 in a row. Even if you are very dedicated, it likely will take lots of practice and discipline.

A more realistic goal would be to do one pushup today, two pushups tomorrow, and three the next day. It will take you a bit longer to get to 50, but you will get there. Every victory no matter how small, is something to be celebrated.

Learn More

Let’s Talk About Online Therapy

Jaclyn Baker

Due to COVID-19, people all over the world have been obligated to work from home, some for the very first time.

When something is new to you, it can take some time to get used to, and the first few days or weeks are usually an adjustment period.

While virtual and office sessions do have their similarities – they also have their share of differences. 

At the office, patients are generally seated on a comfortable chair or sofa just a few feet away from their therapist.

While at home, patients can sit or stand anywhere they like, whether it be their car, yard, or bathroom. 

Our environment has a significant impact on our behaviour, thoughts, and attitude. Having sessions from the comfort of home can help patients and therapists establish a new bond. 

Of course, all therapists want their office to feel like a safe space. 

But at the end of the day, an office is still an office, and there is no place like home. 

Our homes are the one place we can be ourselves and feel at ease – making them an ideal place to organize virtual sessions.

Coronavirus has taught us a lot both professionally and personally, and for that we are grateful. Who knows – perhaps in the future, online therapy will become the new normal. We’ll just have to wait and see.

Learn More

Tips For Running Safely During COVID-19

Jaclyn Baker
, ,

Physical activity is so important for our overall health and wellbeing.

Just because the gyms are closed doesn’t mean your workout routine has to come to an end. 

Not all workouts require fancy equipment or a trainer, after all. 

Not only is running excellent exercise – it can also decrease anxiety and increase our energy levels. 

Staying home all day can be very mentally and physically draining. When you’re feeling tired, going on a walk or run may be the last thing you want to do. But at the end of the day, it’ll be well worth it. 

Running in Nature:

Several studies show that spending time in nature can increase self-esteem and decrease stress and anxiety.

Running outdoors does all that and more! If you are running in a high traffic area, just make sure you’re staying at least 6 feet away from other people at all times.

If you’re new to running, it can feel a little intimidating at first. However, even a few minutes a day is enough to make a difference. 

There are also plenty of apps out there that can help hold you accountable and track your progress. As time goes on, every step will become a little easier. Remember, every lap is an accomplishment and something to be celebrated. 

Learn More

Mental Health Awareness Month

Jaclyn Baker
, ,

Due to the pandemic, many of us have had to face additional mental health obstacles.

Now that the initial shock is starting to wear off, more and more people are starting to worry about the future.

Will our jobs be waiting for us?

Will our companies still be in business?

Will our loved ones be safe?

“It’s just another shock to the system. This is not just going to be two weeks; this is going to be longer than that. People are experiencing increased anxiety, stress, depression, feelings of isolation.” – Dr. Ryan Scott

Right now, since we don’t have as much on our plate, it’s easy to get sucked into watching Netflix all day. 

Take some time every day to think about what’s really important in life. Reach out to the people you love, get in some physical activity, or get lost in a good book. We may not know what the future has in store. No matter what we do or how we feel, the time will pass. Every day is a new day to reflect, grow and be happy. 

Learn More

Keeping The Romance Alive During COVID-19

Jaclyn Baker
,

No Gesture Is Too Small:

Sometimes the smallest gestures have the largest impact. Having dinner together or hugging and kissing throughout the day can help you both feel closer as a couple. 

Check-In With Them:

No matter how well you know your partner, none of us are mind readers.

So many of us are experiencing new emotions and new worries. All of which can be hard to explain and understand. Words are a very powerful tool.

Even if your partner expresses that they are feeling okay, it can’t hurt to ask if you can do anything to make them feel better!

At Home Date Night:

Spending quality time with your partner is so important. Your go-to date night spots may be closed, but you can still have a romantic night at home. You may just have to get a little creative.

The two of you can go on long walks, organize a movie night, or have candlelight dinners. 

It isn’t so much about where the date takes place. It’s more about connecting, bonding, and loving one another.

Learn More

Coping With Coronavirus When You Live Alone

Jaclyn Baker
,

Nurture Your Relationships:

Nurturing relationships with family and friends is so important for all of us during COVID-19, especially for those living alone.

Whether you are an introvert, extrovert, or a little bit of both, all humans desire connection.

Even though most of our schedules are pretty flexible right now, finding the time to video chat isn’t always easy.

Video chatting with friends and family is one of those activities that can easily be postponed or forgotten about. 

We are much more likely to go through with events that are written down or scheduled.

Scheduling weekly Zoom calls with your friends and family may feel like an unnecessary step at first. But it can make a huge difference in the overall attendance.

Making New Friends:

Just because we are in quarantine, doesn’t mean you can’t make new friends or re-connect with older ones. 

You can participate in social media groups, join forums, or virtually volunteer in your community. 

Take Care Of Your Body:

Taking care of our body isn’t an all or nothing responsibility.

If you happen to miss a workout one day, there is no need to worry. Everything from our diet to our sleep schedule plays a role in our overall health and wellbeing.

Dive Into a New Hobby:

Exploring a new creative outlet can boost your mental health, increase energy, and prevent boredom.

The actual hobby or activity is completely up to you. If you’re not sure where to start, go ahead and ask yourself what you have always wanted to learn or improve upon.

Maybe you want to learn a new language, read a book a week, or start a blog.

Don’t be afraid to carve out an hour or two a day to explore your hobbies and passions. 

Learn More