As we start the easing of lockdown restrictions with kids returning to school and we hear busy playgrounds coming to life again, pause a moment to think about the personal impact this pandemic has had on you and show yourself some self-compassion. We’ve all been impacted differently and a lot of people have buckled down over the last year literally in survival mode to do what they have needed to do. The expression ‘surviving rather than thriving’ will most likely resonate. So whilst spring is in the air and we’re starting to enjoy the birdsong and getting out a bit more, you may still feel flat, lacking in direction and that you’ve lost your mojo.
That is absolutely OK. It’s OK to feel this and to acknowledge it. Some days will be better than others. Some days you may be super focused and productive or simply enjoy some relaxing quality time…but some days you may be lacklustre and just feel like flopping. This year has been a challenge like no other and naturally you are likely to feel the need to recharge your batteries, to reset and refresh. You are resourceful and resilient though and with self-compassion and patience, you will come into your own again.
We're starting to fill our social diary again with the imminent return to shops and restaurants and shifting working practices. We are likely to feel over-stimulated and exhausted in this period of transition. Embrace the JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out) sometimes if you need even though we’ve missed out on so much in the last year. Manage your expectations so that you have some protected time just for you. Remember there may be times when you want to hibernate and hunker down again and enjoy a slower pace and … that is OK.
Self-care has never before been this critical! Some questions you might find helpful to consider when thinking about how you can nurture yourself over the coming months:
How do you know when you’re running on empty?
How do you feel when you’re on top form?
What benefits does this state have?
What can you do to ensure that self-care is an integral part of your life and not just something you factor in when you’re worn out and burnt out?
Aim to mix things up a bit so you can call on different things that work for you. Self- care doesn’t need to have a monetary tag attached to it nor take a lot of time. In fact, more and more we have come to appreciate the little things and to express gratitude for what we have rather than focusing on what we don’t. Consider your holistic wellbeing making sure to take care of your physical, mental and spiritual self. So you may choose to walk whilst you talk, read, spend long awaited time with family and friends and/or invest in your personal development.
Lockdown has changed us all and I'd encourage you to take time to reflect on your personal journey and learnings over the last year. It may be that you’re ready now to set new goals and are thinking about your lifestyle and making some changes on the home or work front.
If you’re looking to reset and re-ignite your mojo, get in touch to book your complimentary and confidential consultation call to see how coaching can move you from where you are now to where you want to be.