The recent national election and upcoming holidays have left many of us feeling stressed and anxious. As humans, we are prone to experiencing a range of emotions, which can lead to heightened levels of stress. In order to navigate this challenging time, it is important to focus on finding positivity and peace in our lives.
Dr. Laura Gabayan recently conducted The Wisdom Research Project, which involved interviewing 60 wise adults to define eight elements of wisdom: resilience, kindness, positivity, spirituality, humility, tolerance, creativity, and curiosity. Despite facing great hardships, the interviewees exhibited a sense of peace that impressed Dr. Gabayan. It is this underlying positivity that we can all strive to cultivate during times of stress.
Here are some ways to find positivity and peace to ease holiday and post-election stress:
1. Live In Faith, Not Fear: Believing that things will work out, even if they may not go as planned, can help reduce anxiety and stress. Focus on positive outcomes and practice acceptance of things beyond your control.
2. Release Worry: Worrying about the future only increases anxiety and affects your overall outlook. Recognize and discard unproductive worries to alleviate unnecessary stress.
3. Acknowledge The Stressor: Identify the root cause of your stress and address it head-on. Writing down your thoughts can help you process and cope with the source of your anxiety.
4. Make A Plan: Once you have identified the stressor, create a plan to address and resolve it. Think of practical solutions and strategies to tackle the source of your stress.
5. Practice Self-Care: Prioritize self-care to maintain a sense of peace and joy during busy times. Focus on activities that nourish your mind, body, and soul, such as exercise, healthy eating, adequate sleep, and relaxation techniques.
6. Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries to protect your well-being and maintain healthy relationships. Learn to say no when necessary and communicate your needs respectfully to others.
During challenging times, it is important to be intentional and thoughtful in our actions. By embracing the lessons of wisdom and cultivating positivity, we can navigate stress and uncertainty with grace and resilience. Dr. Laura Gabayan’s research provides valuable insights into finding peace and meaning in our lives, even amidst difficult circumstances.
