Coping with These Economic Times

The problem is obvious. So, rather than talk about the problem, let's talk about the solution.

Here are some tips and suggestions for coping with the negativity and challenges that seem to surround us these days:

1) Don't spend more than 30 minutes a day on media. Between the radio, the news, the internet, the data broadcasts on our cell phones, etc. etc., we are bombarded daily with doom and gloom broadcasting. This repeated exposure is traumatizing and distorts our thinking to see only the bad things going on in our world. And, the truth is, one reason why broadcasters are doing it is because they know that people will be glued to it...which makes for better ratings and more dollars for them. Limit the amount of time you spend daily exposing yourself to the media. Believe me, if something truly important happens you will hear about.

2) Keep a close grip on your gratitude. It's easy right now to realize what we don't have or what we are afraid to lose. But, there are many things in our lives that continue to be positive. Each day try to list 3 things that you are grateful for at the end of the day. You might realize that your positive to negative ratio is more balanced than you thought.

3) Laugh loud and laugh often. Humor and laughter are the best medicines in challenging times. Besides being a great distraction, laughing releases endorphins in our body, chemicals that promote feelings of happiness and comfort. So, while you're not watching the news or surfing the news websites, watch a comedy or check out a joke of the day website. That's the kind of multi-tasking that will bring you a lot of joy!

4) Adjust your expectations. The rules that applied when the economy was stable don't necessarily apply now. Adjust your expectations of yourself, your relationships, your job and your financial situation to match the times. For example, this may not be the time to worry about making deposits to your retirement account or your child's college fund. Try focusing on maintaining savings balances or reducing your daily luxury spending. Or, this may not be the time to ask your significant other to reduce their working hours to be more present with the family. Rather, try making the most of the time you do have and understanding that protecting a job is worth the effort right now.

5) Rely on those you love and those who love you. Research has shown over and over again that social support is a defining difference between those who fare well during difficulties and those who are hurt by the stress. Finding support allows people to shelter themselves from the negative impacts of the stress around them.

6) Differentiate between your wants and your needs. By getting a clear understanding of what you need versus what you want, it becomes easier to evaluate your wants and identify your priorities. It also limits the amount of potential anxiety because, while you may have to give up some things you want, you may realize that the things you need are well protected.

7) Step up your self-care and stress management plan. While it is tempting to say that you are too tired or overwhelmed to do the things that you normally do to keep yourself healthy, now is the time to focus more energy and attention to your self-care regimen. If you don't take care of yourself emotionally, physically and spiritually, you will not be able to weather this storm. And, taking care of yourself can prevent the damage that can be done in stressful times. If you are not sure how to do this or haven't been successful in doing this, contact a professional. You are your most important asset.

If you would like more information about any of these suggestions or would like help building and sticking to your self-care plan, please e-mail me. If you are experiencing depression and/or anxiety symptoms that are conce
ing you or those who know you best, please feel free to get in touch and discuss your conce
s.