Continuous deadlines and stress at work or school will inevitably lead to emotional burnout. Learn to recognize the signs like insomnia, lethargy, ennui and listlessness. But not to fret, below are some useful habits to help manage your emotional wellbeing.
- Take up Journaling
Think of this as a diary for adults. Write as if you are having a conversation with your best friend, except this confidante is you. Your journal is a space for creative expression and to be honest with yourself about your struggles. Whilst acknowledging your fears and anxieties, it is also crucial to balance it with a gratitude list. Remind yourself of all the blessings you have received and what you appreciate in your life. It could be as simple as having a good hair day or finishing work earlier than expected or meeting up with family you haven’t been able to visit in awhile due to pandemic restrictions.
- Practice Daily Meditation
This may sound hard to do but what it means is that you should dedicate some protected time each day to be still and silent. It could be 10 minutes after you wake up or before you go to sleep or both. Make the most of this time to visualise your goals and implement self-affirmation to motivate yourself.
- Spend Time Outside
Being cooped up at home all the time is not ideal, even in a pandemic climate. Have a change of scenery by walking outside (with your mask to be safe). You could take an evening stroll at a nearby park connector or travel to one of the many picturesque nature reserves in Singapore. Even the small gardens around your heartland estate makes for a good eye break. Who knows what animal and plant sightings you may be rewarded with?
- Indulge in your Hobbies
You may enjoy reading, writing, painting or whatever your hobbies are. Now when was the last time you actually sat down to do these activities? With all the looming deadlines, it may seem impractical to “waste time” on these things but playing hard so you can work hard may actually help you manage your stress better.
- Volunteer to help others
The pandemic caused great suffering worldwide, some more than others. We should each recognise the privilege we are born into and think about helping others during this time of need. It may seem selfish to think about others by thinking about yourself but helping people allows you to do a good deed and see beyond your potentially superficial worries at the same time. Win-Win!
The bottom line is this: safeguard your emotional health so you can be the best version of yourself. Keep smiling and all the best. You have the power to be your biggest cheerleader.