How to remain grounded, centered and composed during challenging situations
Are you reading the news first thing in the morning? Do you mainly rely on likes and followers on social media? I think we can agree that even for the most positive person, the current developments may raise concerns, worries and fears. During tough times with COVID-19, economic uncertainty and so much more going on in the world, it is easy to get overwhelmed, disturbed and anxious. Want to take your power back and get grounded again? This is a great time to review all your habits and daily routine. Start with small steps and keep going. No success occurs over night, rather it is attributed to consistent, daily, relentless conscious actions taken towards your goals. People becoming successful have tried and worked for years and sometimes even decades to get there they are at this point.
To be centered, grounded and composed during all times try the following practices. Pick what resonates the most with you and keep practicing to ensure internalization. Keep in mind that this is a process of constant practice and change does take time, patience and conscious choices and actions.
Start the morning with exercise, some reading for yourself, journaling and / or meditation. Remember that the way you start the day is how you set the day up for yourself with these small practices. Leave the phone aside for the first hour or so and attend to what is really important to you. Review your vision board, think about how you want the day to unfold, how you want to feel and what you want to experience. Set your intention for the day and write it down.
Do you think you have no time? Well, at the latest when you are sick, you are forced to make time for recovery. So, it is worth investing in centering yourself, gaining clarity on your goals, peace of mind, health and wellbeing. As I learned it the hard way, it is an investment that pays forward because without overall wellbeing, performance is very fragile. By now, the COVID-19 pandemic has made everyone realize how important health, and in particular mental health is and how it is interconnected with every aspect of life.
After the morning ritual, ensure you are having frequent breaks from the screen or wherever you are working. Get up and move to make you boost your blood circulation. Get fresh air and oxygen, change your perspective to become more creative. Move your body, especially if you are sad, angry, frustrated, anxious or in an agitated state. Go out in nature and contemplate on what the emotion is wanting to tell you. What is it you need right now? Is it acknowledgment, a hug, some kind words, appreciation, a simple thank you, or else? Once you are present in the moment and allowing the emotion to appear, it is so much easier to acknowledge and release it. You can never see the ground of boiling water, as it appears blurry. But once the water cools down, clarity appears and often the reason for this emotion is related to past experiences.
Review and be conscious about your intake. This includes what you watch, listen, read and of course all what you eat and drink. Avoid too much alcohol, substances, and other addictive consumption. Be aware of how you feel after consuming certain food. Are you energized or tired? Do you feel light or heavy? You would use only good fuel for your car. So why wouldn’t you do the same with good nutrition for your body as vehicle for your performance towards your goals?
Centering, grounding and being composed does take a lot of practice and patience. Celebrate yourself daily for your persistence in taking daily small actions towards who you want to be. Be proud of your progress and forgive yourself if you are stumbling. It is part of the process. Keep going and be the change you want to see. You are the leader of your life and you got this.
Bravo and keep going. Much love and clarity Dr. Erika Wichro
