Let’s imagine you’re dealing with a really tough situation personally or professionally. Not hard to imagine, I’m sure. And let’s say there really is no obvious solution or resolution. As a result, you’re faced with uncertainty or loss. You’re feeling confused, stressed, anxious, maybe even depressed. What to do?

So often there are no obvious answers to our dilemmas. Whatever our role — leader, speaker, or simply human — we muddle through different options looking to find the one that will meet our needs. It can be a long and arduous process. 

I’ve not only faced my own confusing challenges, but I’ve supported many, many frustrated folks as they have, as a speech coach, executive/leadership coach, friend, and family member. As a result, I’ve discovered a few practices that can help:

The bottom line? If it’s not healing, it’s not happening. 

When we’re faced with too much stress, uncertainty, or loss, it can undermine our very health. Our nervous systems can go on strike and literally take us down. Please hear me on this. We are not robots. We routinely check that box online. Time to check that box in our lives! We are whole, integrated beings that need care in all areas of our lives. We have been conditioned and unfortunately supported to disregard our own intuitive insights, feelings, and body’s alerts. 

It’s essential to pay attention and give yourself the unconditionally loving support you deserve. Make the decision — if it’s not healing, it’s not happening.

  • Know that your body runs on energy. We are electric! Your body’s frequency can become unbalanced due to physical or psychological trauma. Find a practice that works for you to recover that balance and flow. Jin Shin Jyutsu is my go-to. It’s a Japanese energetic healing practice that re-harmonizes and balances energy flows, promoting healing, optimal health, and a sense of well-being.
  • Rest. Deeply. We can learn from traditional people that when faced with stress, it’s time to sleep. To take a forest bath. To rest. This is why we call it “rest and recover.” Take that nap!
  • Remove the toxins and reduce the stress in your life. What’s causing you and your body discomfort? What needs to change? In your environment? Your diet and physical routines? Your relationships? Be willing to look at the quality of your life — how you’re experiencing life every day — and make changes. Start with baby steps. Just make sure to start.
  • Embrace a spiritual practice. By that, I mean something that provides you with a broader, higher, and deeper perspective. Something that gets you out of your small self and into your wiser self. Something that quiets your mind and gives you a feeling of peace and comfort.
  • Engage in healthy connections where you can experience joy. Spend time with people or animals in whose presence you feel loved and accepted. Where you can laugh and be playful! Where you are seen, heard, and embraced for your authentic self. Connect often. Make it a regular part of your life.

None of us can bring our best selves to every occasion, every time. Not that we don’t want to. Being open to and engaging in personal and professional growth is critical to living a happy, meaningful life and contributing to others in positive ways. But thinking you have to do things perfectly? That’s way too much pressure! Our humanity is what gives us compassion for ourselves and each other. Sometimes life requires us to stop and take stock of what is helpful and nourishing, and what needs to go. I encourage you to do that. You are worth it. More than worth it. Take care of yourself. We need you to bring all the love, compassion, and joy you can to this crazy world! If I can support you, I’d love to.