2020 was a unique and stress-filled year for all of us. Never has one event affected the globe so similarly such as this pandemic. And while we are not out of the clear yet, a new year brings hope for many.
One gift last year gave us was the chance to expand our own emotional ranges. Our resilience was tested day after day, showing us how much emotional stress we can handle and still persevere.
The greatest source of fear from this pandemic was fear of the unknown. It was (and is still) unknown when the world would regain a sense of normalcy. Stewing over the unknown is what leads to anxiety.
Another source of anxiety is attempting to control things out of our control, such as other people, time, or world-wide viruses. When you try to control these things, anxiety will build because you are not getting the results you want.
One way to manage this anxiety is to focus on what you can control. While you can’t control the actions or emotions of other people, you have control over your own. So if you are feeling bad, think of something that would make you happy, and if it is within your control, you are able to increase your happiness. If you’re feeling down but a walk in the sunshine would make you happy, you have the power to do that. If it’s a rainy day, but a cup of hot cocoa would bring a smile to your face, start boiling some water. Sometimes a change in expectations is all we need.
Another way to manage your fears and anxieties is to do NET (Neuro Emotional Technique). This technique will help you clarify the source of your emotional stress and help resolve it, bringing more peace to your day. It’s common to feel an emotion, such as fear, but not know exactly where it stems from. Usually if you are able to identify the source of the emotion and allow yourself to feel it, it will go away. If it doesn’t, that means the original source is from the past and you are being triggered in the present moment. This is more difficult to connect on your own. NET will identify, understand, and resolve these emotions, which leaves you with a sense of relief and freedom from that stress!
Practice focusing on the things you can control and schedule an appointment for NET. These two practices together will help you feel in control, reducing anxiety and bringing more peace to each day.
