INSPIRATION

Raise your hand if you’ve been personally victimized by 2020. Between being quarantined, having to work from home, and learning to be a full time virtual learning supervisor, I’ve had my fair share of adjustment this year. Add on the social climate of America, and death within my family and it’s enough to overwhelm even the most composed person. We’ve put a lot of procedures in place to help us tackle new schedules, education, and safety. On the contrary, not much has been put in place to help us maintain peace and sanity through all of these changes.  Today, I’m sharing with you some tips that have helped me stay focused, positive, and grateful during a challenging year.  1. Start Your Morning With Prayer I find that when I wake up on the “wrong side of the bed” prayer is the easiest way to turn my mood around. A simple prayer upon waking has the power to set the tone for the whole day.  2. Set a Morning Routine – And Stick To It! I’m still a work in progress on this one because I love my sleep, but getting up just a little earlier and setting a consistent routine is a great way to protect your mental health. Not only does it give us moms some much needed alone time, it allows us to knock a few tasks off of our to-do lists, leaving us feeling productive and empowered! So instead of hitting the snooze button, hop up! Make that coffee. Get the workout in. Blog a bit. Do what inspires you to feel good! 3. Girl, Read Your Bible.  When I was younger, I found reading the bible to be very boring. Now, I love it! I find that when I read intentionally, I easily connect the word to current situations in my life, and find God’s continued promises to love and take care of me. What better peace is there?!  4. Therapy is Your Friend. I grew up thinking therapy was taboo. My family communicated often, but never did I hear about seeking professional help for the issues women face on a daily basis. When life hit me harder than ever, it was Jesus and therapy that literally saved my life. When your challenges or feelings become too much to handle alone, seek help to get the support you need to thrive. There is NO shame in taking care of your mind. Do what’s best for YOU!  5. Connection is Key. I’ve said it a thousand times. I can’t picture life without my girlfriends. Being quarantined and not able to see them has been extremely difficult for me. To keep from falling into the depression of isolation, connecting with your loved ones is key. Here are some great ways to connect virtually: -Zoom Wine Tasting -Virtual Sip & Paint -Book Clubs -Virtual Movie Night! 6. Go Outside! Outside has become such a luxury. We want to protect ourselves and families, but it’s so important to get outside! Take a moment each day to catch some sunlight via a walk around your neighborhood, enjoy coffee/tea on your front porch, or just play a fun game with your children in the yard. Sunlight will always be a quick remedy for a gloomy mood.  7. Get Moving! An idle mind can often be an overthinking one. Get moving! Whether that means a workout, organizing, or running an errand, staying productive can help combat feelings of hopelessness or boredom. Take 30 minutes each day to be active and watch how it impacts your overall mood.  8. Journal  Anyone else feel better when they reflect on all they have to be thankful for? Instead of keeping a to-do list, I’ve started writing a list of things I’ve accomplished each day. After what seems like a hard day, when you write down your accomplishments, it makes even the challenges seem like blessings because you made it through! 9. Put the Phone DOWN! Hey, it’s me: GUILTY. Scrolling through social media is all fun and games until you find yourself going down the rabbit hole of comparison. Sometimes, putting the phone down to enjoy your own reality is just what you need. When we remove distractions to be present in the moment, we can often find happiness in our own homes, families, and lives in general. Set aside time to turn off the phone and be present! 10. Be Patient With Yourself. As we all adjust, grieve, laugh, have successes, and make mistakes, remember to be patient with yourself. Give yourself grace and space to feel everything, but don’t let feelings consume you. Know that you aren’t alone, and we are all just trying our very best.  I hope these tips have been helpful to you. Share with me some tips that you’ve used to protect your mental health this year.