I always considered myself to be one of those people who can easily go with the flow. The truth is I don’t.
I can go with the flow when things are going swimmingly. Throw a wrench in my world, and forget it. My flow gets messed up. Instead of rolling with in, I’m desperately trying to swim against the current. That never works – all of the time.
I decided to stop and write this blog in the midst of one of those moments, just so I could fiddle with a couple ideas and see what works.
My son, Ryan, was home sick. His tonsillitis came back (UGH), and he needed to get to the doctor STAT. He wanted me to watch TV with him, but I had work to do. I was working on a project for a client with a tight deadline, and I was behind on some of my own business stuff. I didn't plan for a sick day, doctors visit, and cuddle time (my favorite).
I could feel the panic brewing - “what am I going to do?!”
Stop. Breathe.
Let’s investigate.
What’s going on underneath this panic that’s beginning to bubble up?
I was feeling nervous that things wouldn’t get done.
What happens when things don’t get done?
Nothing. They just don’t get done. It’s really that simple.
So, here is a recap of what I came up with on my kids’ sick day……
What can we do when our flow is unexpectedly interrupted?
1.) Walk away. Yes, you heard me right. Step away from everything for just a moment.
In my recent situation, I moved away from the computer, and my to-do list. I left my office and went into another room to sit. My former self would laugh at this idea and say it’s ridiculous; it will just waste more time and add to the panic!! On the contrary, it helped me to calm down, get grounded, and re-evaluate my options.
2.) Remember that the world will not end. I used to say this to my team back in my days of management. It’s true. Whatever is happening in this very moment will not stop the world from spinning. Knowing this might provide just enough relief to settle the frenzy.
3.) Take some slow, deep breathes. Close your eyes. Breath in deeply through your nose. Exhale through your mouth. Do this a couple times. As you're taking these slow, deep breathes, feel your body relax from the top of your head, down to your toes. Stay in this moment. You can do this for a few seconds, or a few minutes. Notice how you feel afterward.
I tried all 3, and they really worked to help me feel more centered and calm. I was ready to jump back in and formulate a plan. I asked for help. I was able to tackle the day. I was more productive. Everything, and everyone, was covered, including me.
And the best part??? I didn’t feed my panic with food! I was clam, and I didn’t binge. Double win!
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