Recently, I’ve found more and more of my patients have been struggling with current events. So when I was asked to contribute an article to the Ashland Daily Tidings, I decided that I’d share a helpful strategy to cope with the rapid changes.
Here are a few highlights from the article, or you can read it in full here.
The “STOP, LOOK and LISTEN” resiliency strategy involves these three steps:
STOP — The constant flow of input.
Think of yourself as a curator of your time when it comes to electronic media. Instead of getting sucked into perusing things that don’t matter, carefully choose what has the most personal meaning.
LOOK — Within.
Take some deep, slow breaths and connect to what you are feeling right now. Ask yourself: Are my thoughts and fears based in objective reality?
LISTEN — To your inner self.
Stay focused on what’s important using centering techniques such as exercise, healthy diet, music, social contact, and adequate sleep.
It may take some practice but I think you’ll find this strategy will reduce stress and enhance your resiliency.
Your optimism challenge:
Current research shows that resilience is strengthened by meaningful relationships. So take the time to reconnect with old friends or make new ones!
I’d love to hear what works for you. Share your feedback, questions or comments at healthyoptimism.com/contact.
