Focus in uncertain times.

Like the rest of the world, my mind has gone wild with thoughts, fears, sadness, and understanding with everything related to Covid-19. It's been a trying time for us all. Those consuming thoughts can also have a dampening drive on your thoughts and goals. This has been the case with many writers I have talked with lately. They are adjusting. They are worried. Their minds refuse to let go of the uncertainty long enough to write more than one sentence. 

I was in this same group a few weeks ago. I did nothing but watch updates, contact friends, and adjust to a homeschool schedule with three children. It was wild and sent my mind in a frenzy. The problem was, I still had book deadlines fast approaching and those deadlines were not going to change. Something had to give. I also knew my teens were home, worried, and I wanted to share something positive and encourage them to keep writing. 

After reaching out to the #WritingCommunity on Twitter, here is a nice list of suggestions to help you with your personal and business life to stay focused and ease your mind. 

Tip 1: Breathe and reflect
Every morning Tina gets up, showers as she did every morning when going to work then sits at the table while she drinks her morning coffee and reflects on her life, her future, and her goals for the day. She keeps her mind focused on staying healthy but also staying true to her goals as best she can. 

Tip 2: Create a schedule
Ryan says he gets up every morning and has a plan already in place for his day. No news. No social media. Not until he has finished his writing goals, done his business, and helped his wife with their children's homework. Then, once finished, he will catch up on the days event. This leaves him the evening to phone a friend, talk to his wife, and whatever else he may need to do to process the nonsense and the fear from the days announcements. 

Tip 3: Exercise
This is one of mine. I start my day with yoga and focus, much like Tina, on what I need to get accomplished that day and why. Walking also helps me release tension I've been holding and also helps settle those uncertain nerves. Exercise doesn't have to be anything elaborate. A nice walk around the neighborhood, some soft stretching, playing catch in the yard. 

Tip 4: Journaling
Amanda says journaling has really helped her process her thoughts and release her fears. It's also helped her get back on point with her writing goals. I've encouraged my teens to do the same. Record history from your point of view, get it off your mind and into words. It's so freeing. 

Tip 5: Be kind to yourself
I think that one sums it up all on it's own. 

What are some things you have done to help you stay focused and calm during all the uncertainty?