.jpg)
We're starting to see names for it like 'Crisis Fatigue" or "Pandemic Fatigue".
We're hearing sentences like, 'I just wish this Pandemic was over," and "I just want things to go back to normal."
Normal. Now there's a confusing word right now. Even the word "normal" might create bursts of uncertainty, anxiety and stress, because with it we hear things like, "a new normal" or "what will normal look like?"
In our home, we have been feeling a bit stressed out as our family contemplates whether or not to return our college kids to campus or remain here at home and complete the schooling online. A car broke down. Health insurance premiums are ridiculous. We're reminding ourselves to maintain perspective of what is really important.
Fatigue of this kind may make you irritable at every turn, withdrawn, depressed or somewhere in between. If you have multiple people in your household, you may be seeing multiple responses playing out.
What? Might be the next line of response. What can I (we) do about this type of fatigue?
We've been thinking about in our own lives here and when faced with uncertainty of any kind, the advice we give our household and each other is basically in these five parts:
1) Control what you can control and have perspective.
So much of this fatigue comes from anxiety and fear based thinking. Everybody is coping with a variety of things right now and there maybe multiple layers and obstacles. Nobody is perfect and we are all having these moments and days. It's very important to control what you can control and when you can't and have to react, respond or decide, make the best choices possible. Implement a five to ten minute rule before responding. Maintain perspective. Adjust as needed, but think before you respond. Take the time to create space.
2) Take care of yourself with ultimate well-being.
Your best well-being might just be key right now. Please take this with kind ears, as we all know that I'm solidly up for a Golden Oreo, slice of pizza, entire pizza or whatever in response to a moment. So if well-being isn't your best asset right now, do your best in the moments, and, when you can, remind yourself about your own well-being. This includes physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, financial and more. Are you exercising? Are you eating healthy? Are you drinking enough water? Getting enough sleep? How do you feel? What obstacles are you facing? Do 1-2 things each day that promote your best well-being.
3) Give yourself a break. Give others a break.
I have felt guilty at moments these past few weeks saying, "No", but I've said it. I've said it multiple times. I've postponed and cancelled too. Right now and during these next few months, as this pandemic continues, there will be even more change to deal with. More ... when we want less. If it all turns out to be less, thank goodness. I sure hope so, but again, we don't know, so conserve. Slow down if you need to slow down and don't make excuses for it. You are in charge of you. If you feel pressured, create space for yourself.
This is also an excellent time to embrace all you have and find those less fortunate and give to others. Your kindness in all ways will be appreciated.
4) Establish a routine and community
Not everything needs a routine. I get it routines can become boring. However, some routines also create some safety and sense of foundation in confusing times.
For example, we have had a routine throughout this since March to do all grocery shopping on a certain morning. It might be time to tighten your circle of five very close friends or so and establish some super comfy routines. Another one of ours is to watch a movie every night or an episode or two of a show. We also make popcorn for the family every few days for fun.
5) Write it down
Here at Best Ever You, we think journaling is one of the most important things a person can do. Whether the journal or note book is guided or blank, write down what is happening.
If you have additional ideas, I'd like to invite you to join in our conversation or submit your own blogs for consideration. Please join our free Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/ConversationsWithElizabethAndKris
About Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino
Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino is the CEO and founder of The Best Ever You Network, co-founder of Compliance4. She is the co-author of the best-selling book, Best Ever You: 52 Weeks to Your Bravest, Boldest You. Specializing in mindset, strategy, leadership and change-based action, Elizabeth helps people and companies around the globe be their best.
Personal website: elizabethguarino.com