Staying Positive in 2020

It’s important during these uncertain times to stay positive and hopeful despite the changing restrictions.

We have all been affected by the challenges we have faced this year and it’s important to keep your spirits up. From enjoying the beautiful scenery to making small changes to your lifestyle, here are some ways that you can stay positive and motivated:

Stay hopeful

With the news that there is a vaccine in the pipeline, possibly available before the end of the year, it’s important to remember that this pandemic won’t carry on forever. Many people have been impacted by the restrictions in terms of our jobs, money, housing – but everything is temporary and it’s important to remember that things will change for the better and life will get back to normal.

Write a list

Research has shown that if you write down everything you are thankful for before you go to sleep, your mood improves. This can help shift the mindset into the more positive aspects of your life. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude can help you remember what really matters.

The benefit of nature

Research carried out by Leeds Beckett University found that by spending five to six hours outside each week, 95% of people who had mental health problems found an improvement in just six weeks. Nature can be a miracle worker when it comes to our mental health, boosting our spirits at all times of the year. Try and get out at least once a day whether in your garden, balcony or local park. Even having indoor plants can help to relieve stress and improve your mood.

Go easy on yourself

Try to avoid putting pressure on yourself to get things done – lockdown has been hard and many of us felt we should be taking part in zoom nights, online exercise classes or even learning a new skill. If you need to take time out, do something you enjoy without any pressure – read a book, go for a walk or even just have a bath. Whatever you do or don’t do, go easy on yourself and don’t compare yourself to others.

Avoid negative news stories

Avoiding any news stories that are full of doom and gloom can really help stop you from feeling negative – try and read things that are uplifting and try watching the news or reading the paper just once a day so that you have a break from any stories that make you feel uncertain. Be aware of where you source your news from and remember that there is fake news on social media so only use reliable sources rather than relying on links full of speculation or rumour.

Social contact

Social distancing can take its toll on many people – we are social animals and thrive on human contact. Going without face to face contact with those we love can be tough and social distancing can be particularly challenging for those with mental health problems or suffering from loneliness. Try and arrange a socially distanced walk with a friend in the park, make time to phone friends rather than just texting or messaging them on social media and talk to loved ones about how you’re feeling.

Set a routine

Having a routine can really boost your mental wellbeing, motivation and energy levels. Following a routine can include regular mealtimes, regular exercise and set bed times to ensure you get enough sleep.

Limit social media

Social media can be great for those wanting to keep in touch with friends and family especially if you can’t get together in person, but try limiting your screen time as it can make you feel anxious especially if people are posting negative links or news stories, fake news, rumours or content that is distressing. Limit the groups that you follow and try not to look at social media too much.

Eat well

Diet can play a huge part in your mental health – eating a well balanced and nutritious diet is important for both your mental and physical health. Avoid fad diets, limit your alcohol intake, avoid processed food and sugar and try to find quick easy recipes so you’re eating fresh, healthy food.

Think about what makes you happy

Consider the type of lifestyle that you want to lead – are you happy where you live, are you doing a job you love? This year could be the year that you think about making changes that will make you happier in the long term.

Ask for help

Asking for help takes courage so don’t be afraid to speak out if you are struggling. Self-care is essential this year and when you open up about how you’re feeling it can lighten the load – whether it’s to friends, family, a counsellor or an organisation that will listen to your concerns. You’ll often find that others are feeling the same as you which can be reassuring.