To say that 2020 has been shaky thus far, Social Gals and Gents, is the understatement of the century. More like living out a terrifying Sci-Fi movie where we’ve been cast as protagonists.
That said, despite the many challenges – there are still some tried-and-true tips to help us cope and provide some fresh perspectives, now and always:
Begin by thinking of your health in a comprehensive way. This includes nutrition, exercise, sleep, work-life balance, and the relationships with people around you. When things feel out of whack, as they often do in today’s “New Normal”, try to identify which specific areas of your life require attention and concentrate energies there.
Find something that makes your heart sing, that you can feel proud of, and that gives you a sense of achievement. If you’re having a particularly bad day or bad week, you’ll have a go-to safety net, something that will always give you comfort.
Living well is about living your truth. I spent so many years working in an office trying to convince myself that I was happy, but my soul was yearning for more. When I finally decided to take the plunge and start my own coaching practice, I felt like I was finally in alignment with my purpose.
Be more compassionate, starting with yourself. We are way too critical with ourselves. I know it’s hard for some of us to hear, but we’re not supposed to be perfect all the time.
Sometimes what feels like a breakdown is actually a spiritual awakening. In the midst of sadness and despair, real healing can begin. As Dr. Nicole LePera writes, “love the light, love the dark.” And remember, there are moments of real and profound joy to be found on a healing journey.
I don’t know about you, but life in the modern world – New Normal included – is beyond exhausting! There’s always so much do, so much to buy, so many ways in which we are supposed to live our best lives.
I often remind my clients how important it is to tune out all the noise and prioritize rest and recovery. Social Gals and Gents, one of the most radical and empowering things you can do for yourselves is carving out time in your day for reflection and solitude.
Speaking of tuning out noise, I’m striving to simplify my relationship with my phone and social media. Some days are better than others, but I’m working on it!
My therapist (hey, if you’re not in therapy in 2020 you’re definitely missing out—also there’s no shame in getting help!) taught me something that really stuck with me:
We are so disconnected from our bodies, and yet they are talking to us all the time. So next time you have to make a decision, tune in to what your body is telling you and ask yourself “is this a body yes or a body no?” Listening to your body will lead to making better decisions, I promise.
Regarding boundaries, I really love these communication tips from psychotherapist Sara Kuburics: “say yes when you mean yes; say no when you mean no; say I don’t know when you don’t know.” How liberating is that?
Drink more water. Have more orgasms. ‘Nuff said.
Vesna Antwan is a certified coach who works with soul-seeking individuals who are looking to achieve professional and personal satisfaction. In her transformational coaching practice, she coaches the whole person (mind, body, spirit) and supports her clients in turning their hopes and dreams into reality through approaches of mindfulness, self-love and compassion. You can find out more at www.coachvesna.com or follow her on Instagram (@coachvesnaantwan)