Tips on Reducing Stress and Anxiety During This Pandemic

If you listen to my question of the week, I was going to write about Common Mistakes Leaders Make. After listening to people this week, a common theme I heard was around increased stress and anxiety. Hence, this blog. Hope it helps.

These days, most mornings I wake up and think about the movie “Groundhog Day.” Here we go again, wash, rinse, repeat. Ok, that can definitely increase one’s stress and anxiety. I remind myself; I have never lived through such a time like this in my life. So, it’s understandable and quite normal to be experiencing extra stress and anxiety during these unprecedented times. Everyone’s under one roof: kids, spouses, girlfriend/boyfriend, grandparents, and let’s not forget the pets. Just a walk outside can heighten anxiety because not everyone gets or understands what social distancing means, not to mention a trip to the grocery store. Talk about increased stress and anxiety!

It’s more important than ever to take care of yourself. Self-care is critical during these times. Also, remind yourself, I have no prior experience of dealing with a situation like this. I’m reminded of a saying I’ve heard many times, “we’re building the plane while we’re flying it.” No truer words have been said. Trial and error. Keep what works and learn from the things that don’t.

Here are some tips on reducing stress and anxiety during this pandemic:

• This pandemic is temporary. When you start to feel anxious, remind yourself this is temporary. This too shall pass.
• Control the things you can. Remember that you have no control over what is happening outside your front door. We are all doing what is required to help save lives. That is the only part we have control over. Don’t worry about the things you can’t control. Concentrate on those things you do have control over.
• Exercise. Even if it is just walking around the living room. Chase the kids or the dog around the room. Get up and move!
• Keep a routine. Routines are important for us humans. It’s tempting to not do what you normally do during a workweek, and yet, it’s critical to get up and do what you normally did prior to coronavirus.
• Laugh. Watch or read something that will at a minimum bring a smile to your face. Humor is the best medicine. Stress and anxiety can’t exist when you’re laughing.

We are going to get through this. It is going to take time. There is no magic shot or quick fix for this one. The sooner we embrace that, the sooner we can start to calm down and deal with our new normal, at least for the foreseeable future. As Ellen DeGeneres says at the end of every show, “Be kind to one another.” We need that more than ever. Take care and stay well!

I’m offering 30-minute coaching sessions for any business or leader to help get through this coronavirus pandemic at a deeply discounted price of $25 per session for the months of April and May 2020. Some examples: the business/leader is struggling with figuring out how to operate in this new environment, what to do next, helping teams work remotely, or just talk. Please reach out if you would like help during these difficult times.