Hey everybody! First off, sorry for the lapse in posting, time got away from me (along with a little procrastination and writer’s block). The last few weeks have been interesting. We are now living in times that can feel uncertain to many of us, whether it’s financial uncertainty, not knowing what to expect from day-to-day, or worrying about the health of at-risk loved ones. A pandemic is something that many of us have not lived with before; it’s a time filled with new experiences, adapting to new ways of life, and sometimes falling short.
Brené Brown refers to living and experiencing these new situations as FFT’s or F*cking First Times. When going through an FFT, she shares that it’s helpful to do three things; 1) Normalize it; 2) Put it in perspective; 3) Reality Check Expectations. Side note, if you want to hear Brené do this, check out her podcast “Unlocking Us” in the episode titled “Brené on FFT’s.”
Image created by @thecounselingteacherbrandy. Check out her Instagram and website!
TIPS & TRICKS
1) Normalize it: None of us (in America) have experienced a pandemic before. We’ve not had non-essential services shut down. We don’t know what to expect. Anxiety, fear, and stress are normal reactions as we are in an abnormal (and new) situation. It might not be comfortable, and that is okay.
2) Put it in Perspective: This isn’t going to be forever. In our lives, this will be a brief blip. Right now, while we are in it, it may feel like it will last forever, remind yourself that this isn’t the case. Just because it feels like this is never-ending doesn’t mean it is.
3) Reality Check Expectations: This might be harder than we initially envisioned, and it may get harder. We will get through. It might help to look at yourself and let people know what to expect from you. For example, if you know that you experience stress in waves, let others know that. If you experience increased irritability when things feel out of control, let others know. And also give yourself and others some grace, as they are going through their own FFT’s.
“It is under the greatest adversity that there exists the greatest potential for doing good, both for oneself and others.””
DEPARTING THOUGHT
These can feel like tough times. If you’re struggling, reach out to your therapist, many of us are still here and able to meet and see you. We are an essential service and, as such, are still working for the health of you and our community.
Until next time, stay safe.
-Ben
References
Brené on FFT’s - Brené Brown