“Leap, and the net will appear” is a quotation I definitely pasted in a journal or on a vision board at some point in my early twenties.
The amazing thing is that it’s true.
During the early months of the pandemic, I started speaking and writing more publicly about the fact that I struggle with anxiety and have for most of my life. At the time, it felt like a huge risk: Would people see me differently? Would clients and audiences trust me less? Would I feel embarrassed?
I leaped. And that net appeared.
Every time I mentioned my mental health challenges, I would immediately receive supportive texts, positive social media comments and private messages from audience members attending Zoom speeches.
All of this encouraged me to speak up even more.
And then, over the summer, I received an out-of-the-blue email from the team at Headspace, the popular meditation app, asking me to collaborate with them and their sponsor, Intuit MailChimp, on a series of workplace wellness videos called Invisible Tools.
In these videos, I share some of the tips that have helped me manage stress and burnout. Here are a few of my favorites…
1. Keep a list of things that calm you. I keep a running list on my phone of things to do when I feel overly anxious. The list helps not only give me ideas of ways to relax, but also serves as a reminder that I don’t have to suffer.
My list includes: texting a supportive friend, listening to a Broadway show tune, coloring with Sharpies in my favorite coloring book, watching movie trailers on YouTube, doing Spelling Bee or a crossword puzzle, going for a short walk outdoors and scrolling through outfit ideas on Pinterest.
2. Take a deep breath. I know, I know. I used to HATE it when people told me to do this, but it works. Taking a deep breath or two or three works to calm my stomach butterflies and give my brain a momentary pause from ruminating.
If you’d like to try meditation on the Headspace app, visit the Invisible tools website for a free 30-day trial.
3. Say no more often. If you receive an invitation to do something in the future, ask yourself: Would I want to go to this event if it were taking place tomorrow? If the answer is no, do your future self a favor and decline politely now.
And, importantly, if your symptoms are severe, please speak to a professional.
