So……What happens now?

So, what happens now?

I will openly admit that I have struggled to get back into the whole children back at school and work routine…

The children being at school and me working at home is normal for me and has been since starting the business over 3 years.  But, somehow when the children went back to school after lockdown I have found it hard to concentrate and get back into the swing of things…. Please tell me I am not the only one who feels like this?

What Happens Now – The New Normal?

It has been really strange getting used to the “new normal” of staying inside, working from home, homeschooling, even going to the shops has changed!

As humans, we are very much creatures of habit and when our habits are disturbed it can create anxiety and stress, this is how many of us have been, and are feeling right now. we don’t like uncertainty and are much happier when we’re not asking ourselves what happens now all the time.

I am someone who has suffered from anxiety since my first son was born over 8 years ago and I now have many skills in my toolbox to help me deal with it, the main tool to help is:

Routine

Having a good routine can help you feel grounded, comforted and secure when things in the world are feeling a little unsure.

Once you have a routine it will get easier every day to stick to your new plan.  It might feel difficult getting started with a new routine, or back into your old routine but here are some top tips that might help.

Planning

When you are struggling with your routines for the day it can help to create a plan. You will never need to ask yourself what happens now because you have already planned it all out. Using an activity template, a diary, calendar or Trello (they do some amazing templates)

List the things that are important to you and what you need to get done for that day. Using this schedule include;

1. Work/College/University work
2. Housework/chores
3. Food shopping
4. Mealtimes Phone/video calls with friends and family
5. Exercise
6. Self-care / relaxation or anxiety strategies

Redefine Success And Be Patient With Yourself

Things are going to be different for a while. Don’t be harsh on yourself if things don’t instantly go back to normal. It takes time for a new routine to become natural.

Be proud of what you have achieved and your successes. It can help to write down 3 positive things at the end of each day to look back on and see how well things have actually gone.

I lie in bed every night and before I go to sleep I think about 3 things that have gone well that day, that I am proud of and that has made me happy.  And I always go to sleep with a smile. I also ask my husband for his so that he can take part (as I know if left to do it himself he won’t haha!)

Control What You Can Control

While we are managing a new set of guidelines it can be frustrating if we see people are not following them. Focus on what you can control of your own behaviour and try not to dwell on the behaviour of others.

So, what happens now? The answer is, it’s up to you.

You cannot control the actions of others but you can control your actions.

You can find out more about my journey from stressed-out working mum to blissed-out (well nearly) business-owning mum here.