Hello everyone!

I’ve been going deep into my drafts for inspiration, and the idea of this post came to me in November. It’s crazy how time has been flying this school year, and there are so many post ideas I had from the end of 2019 that I still haven’t been able to write. It’s kind of fitting that I waited to write this one until now, because I’ve definitely experienced a lot of obstacles and challenges mentally in the past few months, and it’s crazy how much things have changed this year so far. If you’ve been having a rough time lately and are just trying to get through day-to-day life, here’s what’s been helping me lately.

• Breathe. I know it sounds cheesy, but seriously. Taking a few deep breaths takes only a couple seconds, but it can completely calm your body. Having your body physically de-stress and alleviate tension is just as important as doing so mentally.
• Think about the big picture. Often times I’ll be dreading a certain event or day throughout the week, but the reality is as soon it comes it will be over. If you think this way, you might actually look forward to things you’re dreading (that’s a nice little paradox) because as soon as you have to face them, they’ll be done and over with. And once something’s in the past, you can’t worry about trying to fix or change it, because what’s done is done.
• Get a good sleep. I know this is challenging depending on your schedule or if you just have trouble sleeping, but it’s crucial and can also shift your mood a lot. I need my sleep or else I’m even more of a hot mess, so staying up late to study and do work usually isn’t worth it. If you feel like you’re falling apart, it’s time to take a little rest, no matter how busy you are- you won’t be productive if you keep working anyways.
• Treat yourself when you can. This also looks different for every person, but that’s why it’s so great. Depending on what motivates you and what you’re able to do at the moment, find whatever nice little things you can do for yourself. Eat your favorite food, or give yourself ten minutes to read a book or watch your favorite TV show, and then get back to whatever grind you’re on.
• Talk to someone who can relate. If you’re struggling with a certain challenge such as extreme stress from school or work, family problems, or grieving the loss of a loved one, find support in people who are going through similar things. It’s so therapeutic to talk to someone who actually understands, because you can go more into detail and you won’t feel like you’re annoying the other person because everything is mutual.
• Talk to someone close to you. The reason I put this as separate from talking to someone who can relate is because often you’ll have to go to more external sources to find someone who can relate, but talking to someone in your inner circle of friends or family is still important. It’s the best when someone who’s seen you struggle and already knows how to cheer you up can listen to you and guide you, and you know they have your best interests at heart.

These are just a few of the easiest and most crucial ways to help yourself get through some tough times in daily life. Obviously they’re not cures for whatever is going on, but it’s important to build your set of coping tools and learn to express your emotions in a healthy way. I am always here if any of you need to talk as well.

Brooke