Today’s post comes from my recurring guest blogger, Julie Morris, writer and coach. She shares with us tips for boosting your confidence, which is so important as we enter the third calendar year of a pandemic!
It has been a trying two years, with ample time spent in quarantine or lockdown since early 2020, and the newest wave of the pandemic can make it feel like there is no end in sight. It is completely understandable that you may not be fully confident in your social skills or place in the community.
Fortunately, there are simple ways to lower your stress levels and increase confidence. Check out these tips from Resiliency Mental Health for flying into 2022 with more confidence than ever!
Take Stock of Your Career
This could be the ideal time to evaluate your career. Are you happy with the current trajectory of your work life? Do you enjoy what you do each day, or do you need to make a change? Take time to think about and write out all your interests, knowledge, and skills, and explore new ideas. One way to improve your career prospects is to return to school.
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, for instance, pursuing a business degree could help you strengthen your business acumen and teach you a lot about management and leadership, marketing, and many other essential business principles. And if you choose an online college, you will have more flexibility to balance all of your work and life responsibilities.
Prioritize Your Mental Health
If you are going to reach your potential as you re-enter the world, you must focus on fostering your mental health. So many factors in your life are connected to your mental wellbeing, including your physical health, emotional needs, and relationships.
Find ways to express your thoughts and emotions; keeping a journal and talking to people you trust are great ways to start. You should also learn to set boundaries by knowing when to say “no” to people or activities when they will not benefit you.
Also, try to find healthy activities (e.g., playing an instrument, video chatting with loved ones, exercising, etc.) that help you cope with the stressors of everyday life. And don’t hesitate to reach out for help; there are many mental health professionals and services, like Resiliency Mental Health, to help you navigate various challenges.
Eat Foods That Make You Feel Good
You don’t have to go all-in on a transformative diet to improve your health. But if you have no structure to follow, it will be challenging to maintain habits that work for you. Consult with a nutritionist about what food choices will give you more energy each day and benefit your long-term health in the process.
Exercise
Another way to foster your physical health is to create a fitness rhythm that you can adhere to most days of the week. This can be as simple as finding a fun activity that gets your heart pumping and releases endorphins. Maybe you can revisit a favorite childhood recreational sport, go for runs in your neighborhood, or take advantage of that fitness center in the workplace.
Get Quality Sleep
Finally, getting a good night’s sleep is critical for your physical, mental, and emotional health. Find ways to get at least seven hours of restful sleep every night. Turn the temperature down, unplug from electronic devices, and make sure your bedroom is dark and quiet. If necessary, create a relaxing bedtime routine to wind down and fall asleep faster.
If you are anxious about re-entering the world after the pandemic, you’re not the only one. The key is to build your confidence with practical, everyday habits that fit into your lifestyle. Along with following the tips above, keep looking for other methods to help you confidently step into 2022 and crush your goals!
Would you like to read more helpful content or access many other types of therapist, counselor, and teacher resources? Visit ResiliencyMentalHealth.com today!