6 rules for your daily self-help
File under: The new normal
These 6 self-help habits will improve your today
Nothing much required on your part except a willingness to try
Reprinted with permission from Clairification
Claire Axelrad, J.D., CFRE: "You’re no doubt familiar with the adage You can’t help others unless you first take care of yourself.
"This is a truism you should carry with you throughout your life, and not just when the oxygen masks come down on an airplane. It’s never been truer than in the times in which we’re currently living, when there are new things about which to worry seemingly daily."
1. What am I grateful for today?
Begin with yourself. Try to think about one small thing you are doing to bring a little joy or comfort to your life. I am dressing in joyful colors! Or just spend a minute or two making a list of family and friends for whom you’re grateful. And, maybe, why. Then consider who you’re grateful to at work. A fellow staff member? A donor? Maybe you should let them know!
2. Who am I checking in on, or connecting with, today?
Greater Good writer, Brooke Anderson, says: “As many have rightly reframed it, it’s not social distance we need, but rather social solidarity.” She suggests picking three people each day to check in on. Family. Friends. Neighbors. I’d suggest you also consider other nonprofits you may be able to help. Then consider which of your donors you might check in with. Know it’s not just your clients and staff who need you now; your volunteers and donors need you too!
3. What expectations of “normal” am I letting go of today?
Please stop pretending everything will be back to business as usual in a month. It won’t. Better to face this sooner than later. It will be empowering to give yourself permission to innovate a new modus operandi – both at home and at work (even if they’re both happening in the same physical space). Whatever you did a year or two ago, it’s okay if you no longer do it that way. The biggest threat to success is just cruising along in “waiting” mode. Especially when what you’re waiting for seems less and less attainable.
4. How am I getting outside today?
Over the past several years, all sorts of wise folks have told you about the importance of nature, fresh air, and sunshine. It’s still important! Any time you’re feeling stressed, anxious or overwhelmed, try to take a little walk. Or go outside and sit on a porch or in a garden for five minutes. Or stick your head out your window.
5. How am I moving my body today?
Just like getting outside, moving your body can reduce stress, fear and anxiety. Don’t beat yourself up if you can’t do an hour-long exercise video every day. Just a little bit of movement will help. Anything.
6. What beauty am I creating, cultivating, or inviting in today?
I’m looking for the tiny beautiful things wherever I can find them. Beauty is an antidote to despair. A reminder everything is not horrible. Maybe you can draw your feelings. Or write down your dreams. Or plant flowers or vegetables. Or cook for family or neighbors. Or pick up that musical instrument you put down some time ago. Or sing in the shower?
To read more of Claire's blog posts, go HERE. Your first half-dozen reads are free, then there's a fee.
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