Redefining Life In Times Of Uncertainty

Hey lovelies, local lockdown is here to stay if we are to believe the lockdown tiers system introduced by the government. While not all areas in the UK are equally affected, the restrictions are going to stay with us for a while. The idea is to, hopefully, avoid a second national lockdown by introducing local restrictions based on risks in each area. Logically, we all see why the tier system makes sense and how it can allow us to go back to normal life as soon as possible. 

Emotionally, while the anxiety of a potential national lockdown has been resolved for now, the uncertainty of what could happen tomorrow remains. It makes it hard to feel in control of your life anymore. There is no room for spontaneity anymore. Some have already complained about losing their freedom. While the description is extreme, it also highlights how powerless we all feel in the face of covid. For a lot of people, the uncertainty of the situation can dramatically affect our mental health. We all have a natural fear of the unknown. Therefore, not knowing what will happen next and how long we will be dealing with the coronavirus can feel overwhelming. Life in times of uncertainty feels like control is slipping out of your fingers. There is no way around it: you can’t regain control of everything right now. But you can create a positive structure in your routine. 

Seek little pleasures at home

Regardless of which lockdown tier you live in, the recommendation to stay at home as much as possible is the same for all. Staying at home, yet, doesn’t have to feel like you’re depriving yourself all the little joys of life. Part of the need for control comes from the sensation that you can’t do anything you enjoy anymore. But, in reality, restrictions only apply to physical interactions. Simple pleasures such as getting a coordinated mani and pedi style are still available. 

Rather than dreaming of better days when you’ll be able to carry on with your life as usual, you can still find ways of bringing some of your favourite activities at home. If you love a party, nobody is stopping you from making a party playlist on Spotify and throwing your very own kitchen disco. 

Spread positivity

As tempting as it can be to head to Twitter, Instagram or Facebook and talk about your anxiety, try to take a step back from negative posts. Building a positive platform, on the other hand, can have a more significant impact on your mood. Stress and the sensation that you’re not in control don’t disappear when you tweet about them. On the contrary, your social media activities exacerbate your emotions. You don’t feel better; you feel worse for it! Introducing bright colours and a positive attitude can have the opposite effect. You can start with simple choices if you’re not sure what to share, such as updating your profile picture. A new photo with warm autumnal colours, for instance, can do wonders. If you’re unsure about the best Instagram profile picture size, check this little guideline for tips. Keep a clean background, put your favourite top on, and smile your broadest smile. What will it achieve? It’ll set a positive mood, and some days that is all you need!

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Covid restriction and SAD can be overwhelming

Aside from considering the tier system, it’s important to remember that this period of the year can be demanding at the best of times. In autumn and winter, as the exposure to natural and direct sunlight reduces, little things are likely to feel more insurmountable as a result of seasonal affective disorder. Light therapy devices can transform your day-to-day experience of restrictions. Devices such as light alarm clocks that wake you up by tapping into the circadian rhythm, helping your body and brain to respond positively to the dark weather.  

Is Christmas cancelled?

Will you be spending Christmas with your family? Will you be able to visit relatives on Boxing Day? 

Nobody knows. Yet, while Christmas is likely to be a little different this year, it doesn’t mean that you can’t celebrate. The restrictions can mean a home-based meal with little opportunities to meet face-to-face. But why not plan a family meal over Zoom? Indeed, in times of uncertainty, being able to found a safe alternative you can rely on, makes you feel in control again. Sharing your favourite recipes with relatives and friends on a Zoom call and enjoying a virtual dinner together can still create a sense of celebration and togetherness. Yes, it’s different. But different is not synonymous with bad.

Set achievable goals for yourself

Right now, planning your next trip may not be a viable option. We will be able to travel and visit places again, but now is not the time to do so. Dreaming of when you can next board a plane will only make you feel sad and powerless. So rather than dreaming of a better day – that will come, but we don’t know when yet –, you could create plans for achievable and attainable goals. Where should you start? Here are some ideas: 

Brush up your German skills on Duolingo.

Practice your flexibility skills until you can master a split.

Learn to make the perfect soufflé. 

Giving yourself little challenges gives you something to look forward to, as you push yourself to achieve more. In terms of mental health, small goals offer both mental focus and a positive mental boost. 

Embrace positive journaling

The days of the diary are not dead. Now more than ever keeping a diary, in the shape of a modern journal, can deliver long-term mental health benefits that help you cope with the situation. Journaling decreases stress level through expressive writing and self-reflection routine. A journal can make each day count and provides meaning to the little things. You may not know what will happen tomorrow, and when the covid risks will disappear. But you can structure your day and your progress to control what you can. 

We are going through a lot of stress and challenges in the UK. However, in times of uncertainty, such as now, it is essential to redefine your goals and take back control. Choose your battles, as the saying goes. Redefining the things you can control and transform in your life to build a positive platform can do wonders for your mood and your experience of covid restrictions. 

If you enjoyed this check out How To Set Financial Goals and How To Start A Mailing List As A Blogger