It’s been a tumultuous year so far, with lots going on personally, as well as unsettling current events on a global scale. All around me it seems friends and family are struggling with health issues, mental health, conflict and uncertainty. And I’m certainly not feeling my usual optimistic, ambitious self.
It even took me several weeks to sit down and write this essay. I just couldn’t find the inspiration or the motivation. So, I decided to use my reality as the topic and write about it while I figure out how to dig myself out of this rut.
My most acute issue is my loss of motivation and the feeling of listlessness. I awaken early with a to-do list but by mid-afternoon, I have expended my energy stores, and I’m ready to call it a day. I’ve been thinking about how to adapt to this current situation in order to continue to live a full and fulfilling life as I celebrate my 70th birthday next month and muster the positive outlook for the years to follow.
This is my plan.
Limit the Doom Scrolling
The constant stream of news, Op Eds, influencer presence, all focusing on what is traumatic and disturbing, seeps into my subconscious even after I’ve turned off the screen. It remains on my mind and contributes to my malaise. I have decided to block as many of the news brief social media sites as I can and only watch the latest news once a day to stay current and informed.
Replace Those Sites with Good News
We are bombarded with sensationalism until it appears all there is in the headlines is tragedy and upheaval. But there are always kind people doing kind things for complete strangers, I will seek out those stories, curate my feed so I have plenty of good news to lift me up and reassure me of the goodness of humankind. Here’s a link to one I like: https://www.facebook.com/thatgoodnewsgirl.
Get Out into Nature
I’m constantly amazed at how, no matter what is happening in the constructed world, nature prevails. Eight years ago, there was a devasting fire where I live in Northern California that burned hundreds of thousands of acres around me. But today, when I hike into the hills, I have to search for evidence of it. Nature has thrived, recovered its vitality and grown new, healthy vegetation to cover the scars. I draw confidence for the future from its resilience.
Exercise – Get Out of My Head and Into My Body
Even when I have to drag myself up the trailhead, by the end of the first mile my spirit has lifted and my body feels strong again. Breathing deeply and challenging my muscles releases dopamine and endorphins that support a positive mood. I will remember this and go more often.
Do Good for Others
There is a growing need for those with time, skills and energy to provide for those experiencing food insecurity, financial hardship, loneliness and the need for all kinds of assistance. I will find a way to share what I have and what I can do for others as a chef and an able-bodied volunteer. I am grateful for my security and doing for others will give me a sense of purpose.
Be Here Now
This is the title of a book I read long ago, that has stayed with me ever since. Be Here Now. The simple advice found in the title is profound and I will consciously practice it. I will be in the present moment, resisting the urge to forecast future doom, or reaching back to relive the unhappiness or the misfortunate of the past. There is a peace in this moment that is available and abundant if I settle into it. So I will.
Be Kind, Be Honest and Offer Support – And Ask for Help When Needed
Now more than ever I need to remember to reach out to others to offer them my love and care. I remember during the peak of the Covid pandemic when I would honestly express my concerns, they would not only be met with a comforting response, but others would feel free to express what was weighing heavy on them. I will be sure to regularly check in with those in my circle and lean into our relationship for support.
Learn to Rest, Not Quit
Things might be unsettled for a while. I need to maintain my sense of well-being over time. I will remember to take time out, rest my mind, body and heart, regenerate my energy and get back out there to do what I can and live my best life, no matter what is happening around me.
Let’s Have a Conversation:
How often do you watch the news? Where do you look for good stories? How do you show kindness toothers? What keeps you going?
