I was listening to the Igniting Hope Podcast and heard something that has helped me ever since:
“Before you react, H.A.L.T.”
H.A.L.T. stands for hungry, angry, lonely, or tired. It is an acronym that reminds you that sometimes life feels like it’s spiraling out of control simply because we have been neglecting our basic needs. Now, whenever I feel unusually down, anxious, or otherwise emotional, I check in with myself. How well have I been sleeping lately? When was the last time I ate? How much water have I been drinking? You would be surprised how much stress a nap can fix.
Pinpointing the real issue helps you feel less insane and gives you better direction in dealing with the negative emotions.
The next step after recognizing the real issues is to give yourself permission to act on it. Go have a muffin (I literally told myself that today because I know how real hanger is in my life!) Go take a nap. If possible, cancel those plans that are overwhelming you. Make a budget if finances feel out of control. Create a schedule to take the reigns back on your time.
Check in with yourself. If you do not mind your own needs, who else is going to?
