Life can sometimes feel very hard and full of stress but there are ways to overcome this.
The COVID pandemic is far from over, but life moves on, and we must find a return to a “new” normal.
At the same time, people are struggling with multiple stressors outside of their personal control.
According to a poll by the America Psychological Association, 27% of people surveyed report that most days they are literally too stressed to function!
Chronic stress can lead to headaches, muscle tension, chest pain, fatigue, change in sex drive, stomach problems, and sleep disorders. It can also impact mental well-being leading to anxiety, restlessness, feeling overwhelmed, irritability, anger, sadness, and depression. This can dramatically impact our self-esteem.
The good news is that there are ways to deal with this stress.
Today I have a special guest article by Melissa Howard with stopsuicide.info, and she is sharing ways to rebuild your confidence to embrace life in a post-covid world.
1. Develop a Meditation Practice
If stress and anxiety are interfering with your ability to live your best life, you might consider meditation. Research shows that mindfulness meditation can lower stress levels and help you gain a sense of self-compassion. Furthermore, meditation puts you in touch with your body and helps you live in the moment. Because meditation allows you to work through difficult feelings and insecurities, it can be an effective tool for rebuilding confidence. You can try a guided meditation specifically focused on fostering self-esteem. In addition, adopting a regular meditation routine can help you feel more comfortable with the practice.
2. Address Mental Health Issues
It’s difficult to focus on your goals and increase confidence levels if you are also dealing with mental health issues. A mental health professional, such as a counselor or therapist, can help define your problems and recommend solutions. For example, a therapist can assist you in developing healthy strategies to cope with stress, like deep breathing, progressive relaxation, and journaling. Search within your local community for a therapist, or use your health insurance to find in-network providers.
You can also try virtual mental health services, which allow you to speak with a licensed professional through voice or video chat. These services are secure and convenient and let you get the support you need from the privacy of your own home. You can save money and time and choose your therapist from a wide range of professionals. When vetting potential providers, consider asking for a short, free consultation to ensure a good match. You can also ask your local physician or other healthcare professional for a referral.
3. Take Care of Your Body
A regular movement practice can give you more energy and improve your self-esteem. Focus on movement that makes you feel connected with your body and increase your strength, endurance, and flexibility. You may also feel more confident in your appearance as you become more fit. Investing in new workout gear or a few sessions with a personal trainer can help you get started on your fitness journey.
4. Improve Your Financial Health
Financial struggles can seriously undermine your sense of confidence. Fortunately, you can take steps to improve your situation regardless of the circumstances. It’s crucial to thoroughly understand your income, expenses, and debts if you want to rebuild financial confidence. Furthermore, you should forgive yourself for any mistakes you made in the past. Eliminate unnecessary costs like monthly subscriptions, which can add up over time. You can also refinance your home and decrease your equity. This can lower your monthly mortgage payments or allow you to access more cash.
5. Change Your Career Path
Dissatisfaction with your current career can hold you back from following your dreams. Make a change by applying for a new job or seeking a certification that enables you to change fields. If you have entrepreneurial ambitions, consider starting your own company. There are plenty of resources out there to help you, as well. For instance, one of the first things you’ll have to do is choose a business structure. A limited liability company is a popular choice because of its legal protections and tax benefits, but setting up an LLC in New York is much easier if you take advantage of an online formation service that’s already familiar with the rules and regulations in your area.
You don’t have to let low self-esteem keep you from achieving your ambitions. Taking small steps to rebuild your confidence can help you follow your dreams and create the life you want!
Written by Melissa Howard of stopsuicide.info
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Erica Leon is a Registered Dietitian and practices from a Health at Every Size (HAES®) lens. She is certified as an eating disorder specialist and is passionate about helping women at midlife, menopause and beyond to make peace with food and body image.
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