12May
In several parts, I am going to share an adaptation of a podcast of Dr. Henry Cloud entitled, “5 Ways to Maintain Your Well Being.”
Review:
Part 1. Name the Reality (5-11-20)
Part 2. Staying Connected (5-11-20)
3. Find a new routine
Our regular connections with God and the key people in our life are the foundation of who we are. The routines we follow to connect with God and people are the structure that is built on that foundation. We get up in the morning and follow a routine of actions and connections which communicate to our minds that all is going as normal. Monday through Friday, we follow our weekly routine, then on Saturday we have a routine, and on Sundays, we go to church, and all those actions and connections tell us life is working as it should. In these days of the crisis, establish a new set of routines to follow daily. These routines effectively promote a sense of well being!
4. Surrender the Things You Can Not Control
The crisis has destroyed our sense of control. We used to have control over most things in our lives and now we have lost control of many of our choices. Formerly, we could have lunch with someone. We could go to Church. Going to work every day looked one way, and if you still have a job, it is doubtful that it looks the same as before. Choices make us thrive, and when we do not have those choices, we can feel powerless. When that happens, depression and anxiety can take root, fear and negative thinking can set in.
Make a physical list of things you cannot control, things like the pandemic itself, the availability of supplies, the economy, and the industry in which you work. Label the list, “Things I cannot control.” Then think about the list, unless thinking about it is too overwhelming. Think about and worry about this list for about five to ten minutes and then turn to God! Tell God, “I cannot do anything about this list. I am putting all this in your hands! I have no control over these things. I acknowledge that you alone have control over these conditions!” Pray about the list and surrender the list to God’s control.
Then make a second column labeled, “The things I do have control over.” Things that I have a lot of control over. For instance, if we practice social distancing, wash our hands, and are careful what we touch, we have significant control over whether we contract this disease. Make a list of three or four things over which you do have power. It will give you a sense of accomplishment as you exercise control. A sampling of things you can do is, organize a room, complete a project around the house, do some writing. You can work out, take an online course, just pick a few things, and work on them a little bit each day and you will feel empowered. These and similar goals will help give you a sense of wellbeing.
Login To Leave Comment