by Autumn Lewis
The pandemic, election, social unrest, and just everyday life has reminded many of us that it’s so important to take good care of ourselves. It’s totally normal and valid to feel for others in troubling situations. However, we must know how to keep things from constantly draining us of our energy. This means we must find valuable ways to protect our peace. How can we do this? Here are three ways:
Set Boundaries
You know yourself better than anyone. You know your limits. Your needs are just as important as anyone else. It’s okay to say “no” sometimes. It’s okay to not indulge in someone else’s issues. It’s okay to cut off contact with those who feed you constant negativity. And yes, that includes certain family members, coworkers or friends.
Be Mindful
Be aware of yourself. Ever heard of the state of mindfulness? According to Psychology Today, mindfulness is described as “Observing one’s thoughts and feelings without judging them as good or bad.” It’s a great way of tuning in to yourself and staying in the present. It centers your racing, anxious thoughts and calms your body. Therefore, it conserves your emotional energy and keeps the peace within yourself.
Recharge
Everyone has a “happy place.” And when I say “happy place,” it doesn’t mean just an actual place one can travel to. Your “happy place” could be an activity or a setting that makes you feel content and energized. Make sure you go there as often as you need to make sure you recharge. Can’t have peace if you’re burnt out, right?
At the end of the day you have to live with yourself. You and your peace should be your top priority.