coronavirus

What To Do When You’re Feeling Overwhelmed

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.

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Tips For Running Safely During COVID-19

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. 

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Mental Health Awareness Month

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. 

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Keeping The Romance Alive During COVID-19

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.

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Coping With Coronavirus When You Live Alone

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. 

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Having A Solid Routine During Stressful Times

Of course, we are all so different. What works for someone may not necessarily work for you and vice versa. However, several studies have shown that having a solid routine can help manage stress and anxiety.

Having a routine can also help you feel more confident, which is exactly what we need during this stressful time. 

Routines Help Us Feel In Control:

There are so many things in the world completely out of our control. 

We can’t control what other people do or think. 

However, we can control our habits and behaviours.

Waking up and going to sleep at the same time every day is a great place to start.

Make a List:

Do you ever have one of those days where time just passes you by?

You know you got a lot done, you just can’t recall when or how…

It’s kind of like when you go for a long drive and get to your destination in the blink of an eye.

Creating a daily list can help you keep track of what got done that day, and what needs to be taken care of the next. 

Know What Works For You:

Some people need a very specific schedule to thrive, while others do better with basic sticky notes.

There is no right or wrong way to plan your day. As long as your routine works for you, that is all that matters.

Step Outside Your Comfort Zone:

If you’re open to trying something new, that’s great!

Don’t be afraid to ask yourself what else might work.

By stepping outside your comfort zone, you’ll either discover a new healthy habit, or you’ll learn what not to do next time.  Learn More

How To Cope If You’ve Been Laid Off

If you’ve been laid off during COVID-19, you are not alone. Millions of people around the world are in the same boat.

Losing your job is difficult, both financially and emotionally. 

If you are having a difficult time coping, these tips and tricks can help.

Maintain a Consistent Routine:

If you are no longer working, it’s easy for our days to lack structure, which can cause anxiety.

Even if you don’t have any time-sensitive commitments, you can still implement healthy habits. 

1) Wake up and go to bed at the same time every day.

2) Don’t skip any meals.

3) Call at least one friend or family member a day.

4) Practice self-care.

5) Start a passion project. 

Job Hunt:

It’s safe to assume that job hunting is not an option during this difficult time. However, that is not the case. There are plenty of jobs out there that can be done from the comfort of your own home.

Don’t be afraid to explore local job boards or Facebook groups. 

You never know what opportunities are out there unless you try. 

Your dream job may be one application way.

Learn Something New:

No matter how well versed you are in a subject, there is always something new to learn.

Now is the perfect time to deepen your existing skill sets or jump into something brand new.

There are so many incredible courses available online both paid and unpaid.

You never know. That one course or program can open the door to dozens of new career opportunities. 

Volunteer Virtually:

Volunteering not only helps the community – it can also give you a sense of purpose.

Do some research and see what opportunities are out there! Volunteering is also a great way to meet new people (virtually) and learn new skills.  Learn More

Parenting During Coronavirus

Even though being a parent is one of the most rewarding jobs out there, it can also be one of the most challenging.

If your children are having a difficult time adapting to quarantine life, these tips and tricks can help!

Don’t Forget About The Good Stuff:

There really is no such thing as a perfect day. There will always be little things that don’t go exactly as planned. But you know what? That’s okay!

Every day is full of positivity. You just have to make an effort to acknowledge and appreciate the good stuff. Life is not black and white, and there is good in every day. 

Here’s a fun activity the kids will love.

Every night at dinner, have everyone go around the table and list one positive thing they did that day and why it made them happy. 

Manage Your Stress:

You love your children, and it’s normal to want to put their needs first.

However, feelings (both positive and negative) are contagious. You are your child’s biggest role model. Sometimes they can mimic your actions without even realizing it.

If they see you happy and relaxed, they are much more likely to feel the same way. Make an effort to spend at least 30 minutes a day relaxing and de-stressing.

Encourage Kids To Share Their Feelings:

Young children can’t express their feelings like an adult or teen would.  Their sadness can come across as anger, frustration, or boredom. Before bedtime or first thing in the morning, ask them how they are feeling. If they’re happy, that’s great news!

If not, you can figure out a plan and go from there. Young children need attention and affection.

Reading a book, watching a movie or cuddling in bed can make them feel loved and supported. 

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