Trying to care for oneself during a chaotic time can feel like trying to fill a bathtub with a leaky bucket and a broken drain—while blindfolded. Gone are the days when a quick walk in the park or a simple mantra could provide relief. Keeping healthy feels like a full-time job.
Worry less about what other people think.
This is excellent general wisdom and the guiding principle when attempting to implement unconventional strategies. It's better to look foolish than to feel bad.
Find a metaphor that articulates what you're starting to feel.
Therapists are well-known for using metaphors to assist their patients in explaining phenomena, processing emotions, and navigating difficult situations. Creating abstractions can help us see stress from a different perspective, improve our ability to depict our emotions and experiences, and communicate our needs.
Don't be worried to use humour.
You might crack if you can't laugh at times. Humor is thought to be a resilience-boosting factor. Being silly and irreverent can help to diffuse tensions.
Start a conversation with a complete stranger.
Life has become awkward, thanks to mask-wearing, distancing, and missing the majority of cues that we used to have access to when we could see actual human faces and people weren't cringing when they were within a 19-foot radius of us. According to research, these micro-interactions can improve our mood and sense of belonging.
Play some of your favorite childhood songs and sounds.
We've all ended up getting them remembered, and even if you don't want to share them in public or on a Zoom call, these jingles and sounds can evoke positive memories and emotions, providing a respite from the seriousness of working career.
Make a good prank.
Send a rebuttal to the TikTok prank culture and instead choose someone in your life to surprise. It doesn't have to be a big deal: a sticky note, a funny meme, a small act of service, affirmation, an inside joke, or fun gag gifts will suffice. Good surprises strengthen our bonds and boost morale for both sender and receiver.
Make a fictitious commute.
Few people miss the hazards of traffic and swerving texters when working remotely, but there is something to be said for a consistent routine. Routines, rituals, and structure are extremely beneficial in our efforts to stay on track. Consider creating a simulated commute by going for a walk before logging in, listening to uplifting music and podcasts, or implementing any mini rituals that can be repeated daily to fuel and prime the brain.
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