Let’s be candid. I haven’t made a “C” since I was in 6th grade – and that was in volleyball. I remember telling Coach Chrisman – “how can someone make a “C” in P.E. if they try? I show up here every day, wearing this terrible gym outfit and give it my best even though I hate this sport.” He just blinked at me, not knowing how to respond to a 12-year old girl who speaks in complete sentences.
Fast forward, I am taking the most challenging class of my MLA pursuit – Freedom of Speech. I am learning a lot, but I can definitely see how my left brain is frustrated with this topic. While I still have an “A” in the class I have made C’s on the last two quizzes, despite all the studying I have done. It’s driving me mad I tell you! I can completely understand how college students feel so defeated and unworthy when they make grades lower than what they had hoped.
When I got an email from Coursera on the Science of Wellbeing from Dr. Laurie Santos and her Five Tips for Coping for World Mental Health Day – it gave me pause. I need to let up on myself. Watch her video for her explanation. But here’s my takeaway:
- Exercise – a half-hour of cardio is as effective as a prescription for Zoloft.
- Taking some time for gratitude – happy people focus on the positive. Data shows by simply writing down 3-5 things every day can significantly improve your well-being in just two weeks.
- Sleep – get rid of technology before bed.
- Get social – happy people are more social. Double down with other coping strategies.
- Be with your emotions – it’s easy to run away from your emotions. She recommends a meditation exercise RAIN – Recognize, Accept, Investigate, Nurture. This last coping skill really resonated with me.
She also has a great article here on how to deal with COVID. Check out her Happiness Lab podcast here. She’s takes listeners you through the latest scientific research and shares some surprising and inspiring stories that will forever alter the way you think about happiness. She’s changed the lives of thousands of people through her class “Psychology and the Good Life,” and she’ll change yours, too.
Are you ready to feel better?
Hospitality is in my DNA. I founded Home with a Twist, a daughter’s twist on her mother’s traditions, in memory of my mother to celebrate her life and the gifts she shared with me. Mother loved to celebrate life’s occasions – big and small.
