6 Ways to Feel Safer During a Pandemic
Throughout the day, I’m productive and distracted enough to not let COVID-19 get into my head. But every night, about the time I would have normally gone to bed 4 weeks ago, my mind starts racing and I don’t know how to settle down enough to go to bed. Where I normally feel very safe and secure, lately I’ve been anxious and uncertain. So I did a little research on how to feel safe and I’ve compiled a small list. I think it’s helped me a bit and I hope it may do the same for you.
Help the Greater Good - In the case of this pandemic, this mostly translates into staying home, doing what you can to prevent the spread.
Give Where You Can - If you have the means, share your wealth with those who are struggling. Sending cold, hard cash to a bartender, hairstylist, server, retail worker, etc who has been laid off can not only put food in their belly, but it can spread hope and love. If you don’t have the cash, reach out to those who you think may be struggling. A phone call to an elderly neighbor who lives alone may be the bright spot of his or her day.
Keep a Gratitude Journal - I’ve done this off and on for years. The practice of writing down things that you’re grateful for helps put things into perspective. Sure, the world is kinda a mess these days, but I have a comfortable home, plenty of food and people who love me. In all reality, what else do I really need?
Avoid the News - This is something I’ve done since the 2016 election cycle, but got sucked right back into after this coronavirus business ramped up. A big part of this was because I had to stay abreast of updates for work but it quickly became a habit. Now, I’m limiting myself to watching Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear at 5pm and reading the summaries of Trump and Ohio Governor, Mike DeWine.
Surround Yourself with Good People - In the day of social distancing, I don’t mean physically. And speaking of Andy Beshear, the reason I’ve kept his daily press conference in my routine is because he demonstrates strong leadership and compassion towards everyone. I actually feel better when his press conference ends. The same goes for the people you engage with personally, make sure they are bringing positive energy into your space, not inciting panic. If you need to distance a bit for your own sanity, that’s more than fair.
Slow Your Social Media Roll - I love social media and it’s been a great tool for sharing information during this crisis. However, when you start to get sucked into too much news or comparing your isolation play book to some chick you worked with 15 years ago, it’s time to sit down your phone.
Focus on What you Can Control, Let Go of What you Can’t - This is something I’m fairly good at during normal times. 2020 is not normal times. But when I’m being rational, I do what I can to “let go and let God.” These days, that means, cleaning, not touching my face, staying home, etc.
I’m still working though these myself. I’m curious how you’re coping. Please drop your suggestions in the comments or shoot me an email at mollie@midlifepickle.com.
Stay safe, stay healthy, STAY HOME!
