When life’s curveballs become just too much: 5 ways to cope

I’m sitting in my Vermont home office with our nine-week–old kitten on my lap, back from a two-week foray in the Bay Area to visit my sons and longtime friends. After living here for three years I’ve gotten used to the lack of billboards, which might explain why I was struck by the barrage of them as we drove into San Francisco. Another reason? These billboards were all about AI. In just two years, artificial intelligence companies have gobbled up the office spaces formerly used by the tech industry. Times are changing, and changing fast. 

Then there’s the news, which endlessly bombards us with headlines designed to rattle, shock, upset, anger, destabilize us. It’s exhausting (and no wonder so many of us do a beeline to the Games section first thing).

Truth is, humans aren’t wired for change, let alone rapid-fire change. We’re also not wired for uncertainty. These days, we’re contending with both simultaneously. The combination is enough to make even the most level-headed individuals feel wobbly. 

Thankfully, there are things you can do to nourish your mind, body and spirit, and most of them are completely easily accessible, no matter where you live.

Coping mechanisms that actually help

Rather than dive into “time robbers” like social media and television to help you escape from today’s stressors, here are five ways to restore your equilibrium, elevate your mindset, and enhance your well-being:

1. Nature 

Turn off your phone, or better yet leave it behind, and immerse yourself in nature. Take a walk, hike, a bike ride or trail run through the woods, a park, along the beach, or wherever you can enjoy some greenery, the sound of birds or waves or trees. There’s a reason “forest baths” are a thing again. They actually help you slow down, pay attention to your surroundings and your senses. (Doesn’t that already make you want to take a big, deep breath of fresh air?)

2. Connecting

Ever notice how much better you feel when you get together with someone who really gets you and cares about you? Reach out. Call a friend or loved one. Or simply hang out with your favorite furry critters. The simple act of petting a cat or dog is a natural destresser.

3. Reading 

Reading is a natural stress reducer, helping to lower your blood pressure, calm your mind, and yes, offers a welcome respite from the real world while stimulating your brain. Physical books offer a tactile benefit, and give your eyes a much-needed break from illuminated screens.

4. Writing 

“We do not write to be understood,” wrote author C. S. Lewis, “We write to understand.” Writing for ourselves offers an emotional release, it gives us clarity along with a safe space to express ourselves without fear of judgment or criticism. Oftentimes we even teach ourselves as we allow whatever flows from our pens or fingertips to land on the page or screen.

5. Self-Care 

From regular exercise to getting enough sleep, eating well and finding time for enjoyable activities like music, art or cooking not only improves your mood and overall resilience while reducing stress and anxiety.

When you need support

We all need support, especially during times of change and transition. As an ICF-certified coach with a master’s in counseling, I can help you navigate the challenges you’re facing with empathy and understanding. Reach out for a free discovery call.