What is adulting? being able to handle the situation in a mature way? Taking care of the others around you? Inspiring others in the most possible ways? Well, the answer is ‘NO’. There is no one definition of ‘adulting’. In fact, we all have the permission to make our own definition of adulting, especially in this pandemic situation.
We all have reached the halfway point of 2020, and I feel these past 6 months have felt more like 6 years. A global pandemic, the global economic uncertainty, mass unemployment etc. In such a scenario many of us have been privileged enough to stay healthy, employed, but that doesn’t erase the fact that this constant uncertainty and chaos has taken a toll on our mental health and overall wellbeing.
According to LinkedIn research, three-fourths of Millennials (those between the age group of 25 and 33). have experienced a quarter-life crisis, which is defined as anxiety felt during young adulthood over the direction and quality of their life.
When we talk about ‘adulting’, there is no perfect way which suits everyone the best. One should not forget that it has been a tough year for everyone, so try not to be hard on yourself. Here are some simple steps that one may follow to continue adulting and more importantly to keep yourself a priority in these uncertain times choosing a healthier way –
1. Follow Emotional Clues
“Labelling your emotions is the most simple, powerful thing you can do,” Practices like mindfulness and meditation can help with unhealthy feelings and coping with them. Next, monitor your thoughts and check them for accuracy, by journaling your thoughts.
2. Accepting more Than One Right Answer
We are growing up in a digital age, during which time the internet has overloaded us with possibilities. And it’s good to have options, and an open mind.
3. Try to do at least one thing that’s hard every day
This can be something as simple as organizing emails or contacting an old friend – or if you’re feeling up to it, something more ambitious like going for a run or learning a new song on guitar.
4. Set time for your passions and hobbies
As life becomes more hectic and our time more limited, it also becomes increasingly important to expend some of the mental energy towards doing things that we really like such as practicing an instrument, reading a book, or playing a sport.
5. Start prioritizing your ‘self-care’
Many times self-care is something we leave behind when things become overwhelming. No matter how busy your life is, it is important to try to set realistic goals each week around your self-care.
6. Have a regular, honest conversations with friends & family
It is always good if we share our feelings and thoughts with our family members, whilst respecting each other’s boundaries. If you don’t feel comfortable talking with friends or family about a particular worry or problem, seeking professional help is always an option.
Most importantly we need to know that we are not alone in this process, and it is alright to seek help and guidance from the professionals out in the world.
Being a pro in this process of ‘adulting’ in these times is a goal that can never be reached, leading to frustration and exhaustion. Sometimes “good enough” is a better goal. In addition, comparing yourself to others can leave you feeling sad, especially as it relates to social media. The only person worth comparing yourself to is you, because ‘YOU ARE ENOUGH’
The time is really uncertain, it is extremely important that we start focusing on celebrating the small victories and try not to be hard on ourselves! Whatever you are doing is good! Believe in yourself, Cheers!
