When you turn on the news, it’s hard to avoid some of the shocking stories connected to COVID-19. The reality that so many factors are out of anyone’s control can be unnerving.

Most people across the country are trying to navigate their way through this pandemic as best they can. While some states are trying to re-open, many are doing so in phases or encouraging people to continue practicing social distancing. 

Even as we attempt to go back to normal, many things are still very different. Masks are encouraged and, in some cases, required in public settings. Sports seasons are being canceled, summer events are already being postponed, and more. 

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, and even depressed by the uncertainty of everything, especially when you feel like there isn’t anything you can do to change things. 

But there are absolutely things that are within your control. And it’s important to focus on them in order to get through these uncertain times. 

Focusing on What Is in Your Control

Every day, you have to make choices, whether you’re still in quarantine or your state has started to re-open. Focusing on things that you have no control over only increases anxiety, which includes symptoms such as excessive worry, sleep issues, or possible physical discomfort. Instead, to manage your stress and anxiety, choose to focus on making choices related to the things that are within your control. 

For example, you’re in control of how often you wash your hands, how well you practice social distancing, and whether or not you wear a mask to the store. You’re also still in control of many everyday situations—from what to cook for dinner to what you watch on TV, read, or when to exercise. 

While focusing on these everyday small choices may seem like something inconsequential, all of these things can help you feel a measure of control. Not just over your own life, but they can help you feel empowered to have an impact on how the situation with this virus may play out. 

Focusing on the Positive

One of the things that are also within your control is what you “feed” yourself with each day. And we’re not talking about physical nourishment. The fact is, turning on the news can deplete you in an emotional sense by making you feel helpless and hopeless.

However, not all of the stories related to COVID-19 are so bleak. It might take a bit of extra effort on your part to find them, but there are also good things that have come out of this pandemic. For example, businesses and organizations are banding together to help people, schools across the country are delivering free lunches to kids, and neighbors are helping neighbors. You name it.

Of course, it’s easy to get caught up in the drama of the situation, especially if you spend your time on social media. But you can choose to focus on the positive instead. That doesn’t mean avoiding or ignoring the reality of the situation, but you don’t have to let it take over your life. 

Looking Beyond the Present

Even after this pandemic passes, there will be plenty of things in life that are out of your control. Learning to focus on the things within your control now can help you to feel less stressed and more centered when dealing with new challenges in the future. In essence, you’re preparing for long-term success despite obstacles that could cause anxiety.

Of course, it’s not going to be a walk in the park. So, if you’re having trouble concentrating on the things within your control, or if the things that are out of your grasp are causing you stress or anxiety, you’re not alone. But that doesn’t mean you have to surrender and just let those uncontrollable factors take over your life. Help is available.

Feel free to contact me to find out more about how you can learn to shift your focus and concentrate on what you can control—not what you can’t!