Hey ,
Itâs been a very long couple of weeks for me (happy itâs friday), but I promised myself that I would continue to show up for the things I do love and find pockets of gratitude each day.
It reminds me of an athleteâs mindset, showing up to play the game they love at their best while dealing with the same life disappointments or circumstances we all face too. Itâs easy to admire that from afar during an interview, but when you try to practice it in your own life, you realize how hard it really is. It makes me respect what they carry in the public eye even more.
Growing up with anxiety, Iâve always found it hard to come down from fight or flight mode. As a kid, it felt like I lived in that state, so much. Even now, when I leave my city, some places feel more like home than New York ever has, because my nervous system can finally relax. Thatâs an important signal, but Iâve also had to learn to create that feeling of safety for myself, wherever I am. So I wanted to share a few ways that I ground myself, especially on the hard days and while you probably know all of these methods, sometimes itâs helpful to be reminded.
:)
Move your body
It sounds simple, partly because it is. A workout, walk around the block or a drive to grab coffee can give you space to clear your head before you try to figure anything out.
As a kid I was often put in the middle of situations that required quick problem-solving and mediation skills. I always had to think fast, but when you react too quickly, you can overwhelm yourself and skip the time you need to process, digest, and find a clearer way forward. Sometimes the best thing you can do for a problem is step away from it for a while before coming back. It reminds you that you had a bad day, not a bad life. And your feelings are valid, no matter how big or small the situation might seem.
If you need to privately talk it out first, journaling can help. Itâs never really worked for me, so I usually talk it through in a voice memo instead. Whatever you choose, youâre allowed to process your feelings in the way that works best for you.
Pray
Romans 8:28 reminds us that all things work together for good for those who love Him. That doesnât mean every moment feels good. Some days donât, and today was one of them for me. But I hold on to the truth that even delays, disappointments, and uncertain seasons are being worked into something good, even when I canât see it yet.
God often uses challenges to help us build resilience. Itâs never a fun experience. But think about how a parent teaches a child for their growth. Is it ever really fun in the moment? Hebrews 12:11 says discipline feels painful at the time, but later it produces peace. The hard part is never the whole story.
And even if youâre struggling to trust God right now, it doesnât mean you donât have faith. Every relationship goes through seasons and a struggling relationship with God is still a relationship, and that alone signals that youâre still showing up.
Let people in
If youâre used to being the dependable or responsible one, like I am, it can feel really hard to admit when you need support. This has been a challenging year for me. Thereâs been a lot of good, but Iâve also been tested in ways that are completely new. Today, a friend reminded me Iâm not alone, and it made such a difference. Call, send a voice note, or text someone you trust. You donât have to carry everything by yourself.
Gratitude
When everything feels uncertain, try to find one small thing thatâs good right now. Gratitude doesnât erase the hard stuff, but it reminds me that the hard stuff isnât the whole story.
Whatever youâre walking through right now, remember youâre not walking it alone. Delayed doesnât mean denied, and better days are coming.