How to stay focused during Turbulent times…

I have to admit these last few weeks have taken a radical turn in ways I have never expected. I know I am not alone in this feeling. If you have done any reading whatsoever on social media or put on the dreaded news (which the majority of the time is bad)- you will have noticed similar themes.  Stick to a routine blah, blah, blah…

I can’t say what I’m about to share here is earth shattering or anything, but this is my take on the situation. Do what works best for you. I’m a morning person and just knowing that I’m a morning person helps me to see that I “think” the best in the morning. So I am still getting up early to:

*Write in my prayer journal- There’s something very powerful in writing out your thoughts and prayers. My favorite time of the day is spending time with the Lord.  I get to air out my feelings, my hopes and my fears. When I do this – it makes life that much easier to navigate.

*Read my Bible- yup- this is my time to read about how my Heros of Faith navigated life thousands of years ago. Guess what- human nature today isn’t that much different than human nature all those years ago. While they may not have had indoor plumbing or a washing machine for their clothes & dishes- they still struggled with the same things we struggle with today. Infertility, poverty, betrayal, death, love, going after your calling. It’s all right there.

*Write my todo list but be able to pivot. And don’t be afraid of change! The first week or so I was just focusing on working from home – making sure I had enough supplies for my family.  Then the kids were sent home from school- at first it felt like an early Spring break. As the weeks continued to be added to the no school situation – we all needed to pivot again to the idea of homeschooling our kids.  In my area of the country we still do not know if the kids will return to school this year (its not looking good).  Some days are easier than others but we don’t have to let it get us depressed or down. Flip the narrative/ perspective. Even though our world is really unrecognizable right now resist taking on all the fear! Don’t let it rob you of your joy.

*Continually flip the narrative/perspective. Okay – so right now I live in hot spot where the virus seems to be everywhere- for example I have to wear a mask to go grocery shopping. I can let fear paralyze me or I can pick out a pretty bandana or scarf to wear with my athleisure wear outfit with cute sneakers. I have to remind myself that God is greater that this virus. And staying at home with my family is not a bad deal either! I’m able to do some projects and actually cook dinner (how novel!).

Take this slow down time to be creative, pray -reconnect with family, friends and yourself. Look at ways you can help others- donate money, cook a meal or just call and check in with someone.

This is just an unusual time in history that hopefully will be over before we know it. In the meantime, stay focused on the good and pray your way through the bad.

Don’t let your emotions get you carried away. Keep your eyes on Christ.

 

xoxo, Kim