Protective purpose

We are all living through one of the most uncertain periods of our lives, and in recent history. The stress and anxiety over big life issues such as health, safety and the future can be frustrating and exhausting. These feelings of concern are actually a natural response to an abnormal situation. And our “natural” response comes from God.  

Our responses of stress and anxiety are natural “defense mechanisms” designed to help protect us from emotional and psychological harm. The problem is that left unmanaged, stress and anxiety can take over our thoughts and emotions to the point that they do not serve their protective purpose, but become their own problem in our lives.  

Below are 5 tips in managing stress and anxiety during this time of isolation and uncertainty.  

1. Separate what you can control from what you can’t control.

   Can Control:

   • Learn something new
   • Fix something
   • Start a new project/hobby

   Can’t Control:

   • What’s happening in the world
   • Current restrictions
   • The future and the past
2. Maintain a regular schedule for yourself
   • Get up and go to sleep at the same time every day
   • Set daily goals for yourself
3. Do what helps you feel safe
   • Watch a funny movie
   • Go for a walk
   • Read a book you’ve always wanted to
   • Cook/bake something different or new to you
4. Stay in the Present
   • Focus on today, what you can see, hear, think about, and do now
5. Stay Connected
   • Reach out to people you know and check on how they are doing
   • Invite people to video chat

The video below is an inspirational video about God’s plan for our lives. 

What’s my purpose in life?

Writer:  Kim Boyce, PLMHP