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Turbulent times lead to turbulent emotions and it’s important to know how to stay grounded when things fall apart. Life is full of unpredictable ups and downs but we should try to stay as stable as possible. That means monitoring our moods and our feelings and learning to stay grounded.
What this means
Staying grounded means being firmly rooted, planted in the earth, and being clear in who you are and where you stand. Just like a tree…
Adaptability
When you are grounded, you can be productive and free at the same time. However, you must be able to adapt.
Instead of falling apart, you sway with the winds.
Severe storms don’t break you because you adapt and move in motions so that you bend instead. Swaying in the wind actually helps the tree by building up strength, just as going through life challenges makes you stronger and more resilient.
Small bites
Rather than trying to take a very large chunk at one time, it is easier to stay grounded when you take small bites, dividing large projects into smaller tasks, just like eating a large meal.
Living is not a sprint, it’s a marathon. Take on only as much as you can while you can, one day at a time, one step at a time until you get to where you want to be.
READ: HOW TO KEEP YOUR COOL NO MATTER WHAT
Focus
To stay grounded, your undivided attention is often required. Not all the time, but at specific, very important times. Meditation can help you focus on the tasks at hand so that you quiet distractive, negative thoughts and are able to focus on the workings of your inner mind.
Do what you have to do to remove distractions. It may be a quiet room, a special place, or turning off your cell phone.
Deep breathing and attention to your breath also help you to stay grounded. Practicing mindfulness helps to keep you in the present moment.
READ: HOW TO OVERCOME ANXIETY AND PANIC
Reach out
Talking to other people such as family, friends, counselors, and therapists can be very helpful. They can remind you of who you are and what you stand for, which keeps you grounded, especially in times of despair.
No fear
There is no reason to be afraid of your feelings. There are no “good” or “bad” emotions. We all feel hurt, anger, sadness, resentment, love, joy, disappointment, and more.
No one else can define you. And you are constantly changing. Allow the opinions of others to bounce off of you and remain unfazed.
Be honest with yourself. And know that you are the one who is in control of you.