Welcome back to my blog!
Today's post is a little different than anything that I have written before. I've been putting off writing this because I really wanted to take time to gather my thoughts before I shared them. I always want to be open and honest on this platform. This past year has been full of life changes like engagements, medical diagnoses, starting new jobs, building our first house, changing friendships, a global pandemic, and much more. There has just been a lot going on. There have been challenging difficult moments and the happiest most joy filled moments that I've ever experienced. This year is definitely going to be full of a lot of life transitions for both Devin and I.
I know that life transitions can feel very overwhelming and that with any kind of change comes many different emotions and thoughts. Sometimes our thoughts turn into an internal loop that can be loud, persistent, and ultimately paralyzing. And once it begins, it is hard to stop.
I just wanted to reflect and share a few tips that I've learned over the past few months that really helped break my own internal loop when life started feeling overwhelming.
Focus on your Constants
Sometimes when you are feeling down about situations in life your thoughts can become negative and your view can become warped. It's important to show gratitude and still focus on all the positives in your life. Pick out your constants, whether that be the people in your life that love you, your favorite hobby that you get to do everyday, or even your dog who is always excited to see you.
Do little things that bring you joy
When life begins to feel overwhelming something that I like to do is set aside time to do my favorite activities that make me happy. This can be as simple as reading a book, watching your favorite movie, signing up for your favorite workout class, or even face timing a friend. The littlest moments that bring us joy can really lift our spirits and be a welcome distraction for our mind.
Create routine
The next tip is to create your own routine. I am someone who thrives with consistency and routine. (definitely an enneagram type 9) So when life gets crazy, I sometimes have to be creative and create my own. This can mean waking up earlier so you have enough time to make breakfast and plan out the day. Maybe it's picking 3 days out of the week to squeeze in a quick workout after work. Whatever your own routine is, being consistent and making the time will definitely help you feel less overwhelmed.
Remember there is a greater plan
Finally, the most important thing to remember is that not everything is under your control. Sometimes no matter how much we plan everything out, life doesn't go exactly how we expect and that is okay! God sees our future and already knows every moment we will experience, the sad and the happy ones. No matter how overwhelmed we may feel at times He has a plan for our life that is WAY better than we could ever dream up ourselves.
"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29:11
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