“Focus On What You Can Control, Not On What You Can’t”

How is everyone right now?

As we find ourselves in these uncertain times it’s easy to get caught up worrying excessively, especially about things out of our control. I know with Covid-19 and lockdown there’s so much uncertainty in the world, we are having to learn new ways to navigate our lives at this time. Suffering with anxiety myself, I know how easy it is to start overthinking and worrying excessively about outcomes I actually have no control over, so I find it helpful to remember to FOCUS ON WHAT I CAN CONTROL

As we all face individual concerns during these times, be that related to health, financial, food, family, friends and loved ones, I thought I’d share this helpful focus with you.

FOCUS your time and energy on the things you can control, to help you do this:

1 - Determine What You Can Control

You can’t control how someone else behaves, but you can control the way you react. You can’t control if you or a loved one ends up ill, but you can prepare for this. For example by following the Government and World Health Organisation guidelines you know that you have done what you can to help minimise the risks.

2 - To Focus On Your Influence

Think about your behaviour. Be a good role model and make sure you set healthy boundaries for yourself.

3 - Identify Your Fears

Acknowledge your fears and what you’re afraid will happen. Sometimes the worst case scenario may not be as bad as you fear. Then focus on problem solving instead. Is your thinking productive?

4 - Manage Your Stress

Take care of yourself by exercising, eating healthy, get plenty of sleep. Try meditation, mindfulness, connect with friends and family (during this time we can phone them, use FaceTime, or try a group meeting on Zoom), take up a hobby.

5 - Affirmations

Find a positive or healthy affirmation to help your mental wellbeing. This is a great tool to prevent self-doubt or too much ruminating.

Here’s a few to start you off: