I don’t know about you, but this week, I started feeling a bit anxious again.
We constantly hear threats like “second wave”, “infection rates”, “further restrictions” and constant speculation about what Boris might say in each new announcement. I find myself thinking, what will it mean for me, my family and my business.
Is it any wonder that many of us are stressed and overwhelmed?
So, I thought I’d drop you a little note to remind you of my top tip for stress. And it’s simply this – take five minutes at a time.
If you feel the panic rising, the tiredness tipping you over or the sadness mounting, then as soon as you can sit down, and stop, for five minutes or as long as you can.
Sit down and say to yourself: “It’s ok to be feeling how I am. There are many others feeling the same. I am not alone or weak or unstable. I am deeply loved and courageous”.
Slow down, breathe deeply and look around you. Look for things that are joyful, beautiful and calming, however simple they may be . It may be the flowers out of the window, the sound of the wind blowing the leaves or the gorgeous wallpaper that you spent hours choosing. And say to yourself, “I just have to do the next five minutes”. Set a timer on your phone if you’re particularly anxious – that really helps.
We only ever have the present moment and in that moment you are always ok. You are always doing the best you can. And there is always a stillness and strength within you, a wise voice to guide to the next gentle, loving step. You are way more resilient than you think.
Just take one step at a time, one five minute period at a time, and keep going.
Stay in today and let tomorrow sort itself out.