Dealing with an uncertain future can be scary, but thinking about, and taking steps to create, a positive future is vitally important.
◆Use hope to cope. One of the biggest things people are struggling with is feeling stuck in the difficult present and afraid to look to the future. Studies show that hope leads us to maximize psychological adjustment by reducing anxiety, increasing motivation, and helping us pursue goal-directed actions.
◆ It's crucial to your emotional well-being to continue planning and dreaming for the future, even when that future looks uncertain. "Suspend your reality for the moment, and allow yourself to feel happy about this imagined future," said Dr. Waters. "Just let your brain dream."
◆Dare to dream small. On a small scale, make plans with friends to meet for a walk or to go for dinner. Think of outings you and your loved ones can look forward to, movies or sporting events or even trips to the mall. There's no need to try to pin down when these things might happen.
◆Consider making changes. Use this time of sheltering-in-place as an opportunity to reflect on any changes you'd like to make in your life. Once you decide what changes would be beneficial, come up with specific steps you can take to enact them when the time is right. You can always adapt your plans as the situation continues to evolve.
◆Look for the positive sides. It is a long lane that has no turning. So you don't need to be optimistic to see them. Maybe you're learning to budget better or to be happier with less. Maybe you're seeing the benefits of getting back to basics. Whatever it is, acknowledge the new shift and be grateful.
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A. Dare to dream big. B. Never lose your heart. C. This is where hope comes in. D. Positive anticipation can be as rewarding as the events themselves. E. Even the worst of times usually bring with them some unexpected blessings. F. However, that doesn't mean you're ignoring the hardships you're going through. G. For example, many are reinvesting in relationships or spending more time with family. |
