We’re all going through a period of loss - lifestyle, income, livelihood, social contact, and a sense of control over our futures. Uncertainty and ambiguity stir up anxiety. If you don’t make the effort to stop excessive anxiety, it might default to a “loss” alert unless you stop it. Energy can get stuck on ‘what is wrong.’ 

The ’what’s wrong’ hole is bottomless. Once you’re down there, it’s tough to dig out. It takes practice to switch. Here are three small steps that you’ve heard before … but ones that need repeating :)

1. When your mind drifts to the future with a worst-case scenario, say: “don’t go there.” Replace the thought with: “The actions that I choose to do or choose not to do today will determine the trajectory of my future. Do what I can today.” Make a list of Instant Small Acts you can do to regain a sense of control. Even cleaning a drawer gets a checkmark.

2. No matter how down you feel, make an effort each morning to focus on what’s right, what is working. Download this reminder to focus on what’s right and pin it up on your mirror. Set a short term goal of 15 minutes of positive focus to start. One of the translations of the Greek word agape is: “look for the good.” Looking for the good in yourself and others is a high thought-form. At end of day, think of one small, positive thing you did that day. If you can write it down, better. When you get down on yourself for not performing - let yourself off the hook with: “That’s not helpful” and reinforce yourself for noticing.

These tiny steps won’t bring back your job or increase the Dow Jones average, but they help create a sense of perspective and balance. Words and thoughts matter.