The pandemic is hard on everyone in a variety of ways. I’ve noticed that it hits me in waves. Sometimes all seems good and I’m weathering things well. Other times, it all seems hopeless and I’m overcome with worry about many aspects of life.
If you’re like me, you’ve been living a more integrated life, like it or not. The lines between home and family, personal development, and career are all kind of blurred right now.
Unfortunately, that means that if one area isn’t going great, you’re more likely to feel down about all of it.
Recently, during a time I was feeling particularly encouraged, I decided to tackle my plan for self care with some intention. I wanted to share in case it might help you. Breaking it down helps me recognize that just because one area isn’t going well, it doesn’t mean everything is falling apart.
These are the three facets I consider.
- Mental – my emotional, spiritual, and cognitive health
- Physical – food, drink, and exercise
- Professional – my career and accomplishments at work
I am doing little things to try and improve my self care in each of these areas each week.
Mental
I use the Calm app, which has a daily meditation that last about 10 minutes. I probably only do it about 50% of the time and even at that level, it is beneficial. I also know it is an easily accessible tool to settle my mind and allow for clearer thinking.
Physical
I recently finished the book “The Power of Habit” (https://charlesduhigg.com/the-power-of-habit/). I’ll try and write more later, but the basic premise is we have incredible power to change ourselves and our world if we think about habits. I’ve been looking at ways I can implement the ideas with my exercise, which has been spotty, and my alcohol consumption, which has been consistent.
Professional
I recently heard a quote that said, “when the student is ready, a teacher will appear.” I’m grateful to have a job, but I don’t want to get in the mode of just hanging on. There might not be big opportunities in the near future, but I’m going to be looking for micro-opportunities for learning and growing.
Of course, Simple Sundays are still important. Take some time to rest and consider how you’ve been doing with self care during these weird and challenging times. Take some small steps today so that this Monday, and all your future Mondays, can be awesome.
Until next time,
Brian