In my last blog, I mentioned that with everything going on in the world, I’ve felt loss – the loss of not having plans and feeling on hold to make plans. This is hitting me today, as I think about Mother’s Day, and knowing I won’t physically see both my kids, which makes me feel sad. I’ll be the first to admit this is not a big problem, and that physically seeing both of my kids doesn’t always happen on Mother’s Day anyway, since they’re both grown. I think what’s making me feel most sad, is knowing I can’t make the necessary travel plans, with the stay-at-home orders still in place.
Are you experiencing any loss or sadness from not having plans and feeling on hold to make plans? Maybe it’s your regular weekly routines and activities, like going to the gym, church, shopping and meeting family or friends for a meal?… Maybe it’s a bigger event, such as a graduation, wedding or the birth of a baby?… Maybe it’s a concert, holiday or airline travel to your next big adventure?…
It’s okay to feel loss and sadness for missed opportunities, delayed plans and cancelled events. As well as stress over thinking about when you’ll have the chance to make plans, commit to meeting people, or schedule that next big travel adventure.
In addition, for many people, there is a great deal of uncertainly that comes with not having plans and not being able to make plans. Not having our normal schedules that we count on to keep us on track. On track to accomplish daily responsibilities, meet deadlines and reach goals. Along with uncertainty, people can experience lack of energy, direction and purpose, because life isn’t looking or feeling like it used to or how they want it to. Then comes fear of the unknown, what’s next in the process and how will I adjust to the new normal?! It can all feel a bit too much at times, and has for me.
I encourage you to practice self care as much as possible. There is no better time than now! Breathe… Pay attention to how you feel – don’t disregard your feelings and also don’t take them too seriously. If you need support, reach out and get it. There are many caring family members, friends and organizations prepared and ready to help. It might surprise you that others feel similar. Too often when we feel loss, sadness and stress, we feel alone, and we shouldn’t!
Know for sure that many times the changes that come from challenges are also accompanied by new possibilities, exciting opportunities and unimaginable silver linings.
My goal in sharing is always to support and encourage others. If you found this blog helpful, please share. Let’s focus on doing what we can to support each other during a challenging time.
Until next time, Laura Li Lifestyle
