4 Ways To Take Back Control Of Your Life After A Pandemic

Anxiety is hard to manage, sometimes, even under the most favourable conditions. It is even more challenging in the wake of a pandemic, often characterized by fear and panic. Losing your job, pausing projects, having to cancel trips, and the lack of social activities is sufficient to get even the calmest of persons to experience anxiety. One in four adults suffer mental health challenges in the US. This, added to the stress and fears over COVID-19, creates a grim situation which makes it harder to cope through daily life. As things slowly get back to normal, it may well be time to regain your zeal for life. So how do you get back on your feet? Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to reclaim control of your life after going through what seems to be unending turmoil. Here are a few of them.

Filter the news you consume

Continually checking, reading, or watching the news will cause your anxiety to heighten the more. Your interest can transform into a bad habit, and before you realize it, you are spending most of your time constantly checking the latest news on the pandemic. Since it is simpler to stop a negative behaviour pattern from the beginning, restrict the measure of time you spend viewing reports – beginning from now. It will serve your best interest to start now rather than later. If you must, ensure that you are taking information from credible sources and try to avoid clickbait headlines.

Stay connected

Maintaining social distance from others does not imply that we should socially isolate ourselves. Utilize technological advancements like Skype, FaceTime, or platforms like Indian dating sites to connect with friends or to meet new people. This is one method to help you combat the feeling of loneliness. Since some outdoor social gatherings are allowed, you can schedule lunch with your loved ones to make up for the lost time caused by the lockdown.

Pay attention to your thoughts

Taking control of your life will most likely start with your mind. Therefore, as you gradually leave the lockdown life behind, try to learn about mindfulness. It will help you be more aware of your emotions as well as your surroundings so that you can choose what you react to. Another strategy to use is to try and occupy yourself with something anytime you feel your mind wandering into ‘not so great’ places. It could be work, a game, or a workout. This means that you get to decide what consumes your thoughts instead of letting it go off track.

Find something to look forward to

When the pandemic first invaded lives, it seemed like there was nothing to do, but even in those rough times, some people found ways to entertain themselves. You may have had to put your plans on hold, but as things ease up, it is good to cross them off your to-do list. Be it a project or language you want to learn, there are numerous resources online to assist you for free. There is nothing better than having something to be excited about. It grows your self-confidence and improves your mental wellbeing in the long run. While at it, be patient with yourself and remember that it may take time to get back on track.