Top Three Questions I'm Hearing From Clients During The Pandemic

As a Life and Relationship coach, the pandemic has brought about unique challenges, and my clients are turning to me with their pressing questions. The increased time spent with family has led to new concerns, and here are the top three questions I've been addressing along with the insights I've shared.

1. How Do I Better Manage My Stress with Everyone Home?

- Understanding My Sensitivity: I've emphasized that approximately 20% of individuals, including myself, are highly sensitive people (HSPs). Managing my own sensitivity becomes crucial rather than attempting to change the behaviors of everyone around me.

- Being My Own Thermostat: To cope, I've adopted the metaphor of being my own thermostat. Creating a quiet space, wearing earbuds, and taking regular breaks have become my go-to strategies to manage stimulation levels.

- Calming Techniques: I've implemented specific calming techniques, such as breathing exercises and regular exercise, to address anxiety and stress proactively.

2. How Do I Get Others to Help Me More Around The House?

- Appreciating What I'm Given: Recognizing that people tend to excel at what they're good at, I've started by appreciating and acknowledging the contributions of others before expecting more.

- Law of Attraction: I've learned that being demanding discourages participation. Adjusting my expectations and gradually increasing them as I witness success has proven to be more effective.

- Burden of Expectation: Acknowledging that caring less about certain tasks can lead to a fairer distribution of responsibilities, I've reassessed and adjusted my priorities.

3. How Can I Reconnect with My Stressed Spouse?

- Reconnecting During Stressful Times: I've viewed the current situation as an opportunity to deepen my connection with my spouse. Addressing basic needs of safety, trust, and dedication has become a priority.

- Influence Through Being Influenced: Understanding my spouse's struggles and trials has become the first step in influencing them positively. By being influenced by their perspective, I aim to foster a stronger connection.

- Creating Couple Time: I've actively dedicated one hour each night to spend quality time with my spouse. Turning off technology and engaging in shared activities like walks and movie nights has become a cherished routine.

- Daily 20-Second Hug: Incorporating a daily 20-second hug has not only brought physical closeness but has also released dopamine, reducing stress for both of us.

These answers reflect the strategies and perspectives I've adopted personally to navigate the challenges of increased stress, household responsibilities, and the need for reconnection during these uncertain times.

Converting My State of Boredom to A State of Higher Being

In the words of Friedrich Nietzsche, "Is life not a thousand times too short for us to bore ourselves?" Boredom, a relatively new concept in the grand scheme of our existence, often stems from living a more abundant life. As I navigate through this challenge, I've come to realize that conquering boredom goes beyond merely keeping myself occupied – it's a life skill that can lead me to become the best version of myself.

Be Curious - What Is My Boredom Trying to Tell Me?

Responding with Curiosity: I've learned to view boredom not with contempt but with curiosity. Instead of dismissing the feeling, I ask myself, "What is my boredom trying to get me to do?"

Uncovering Fears: I explore if there's a fear behind my boredom, such as feeling like a failure if I'm not constantly producing something. This introspection helps me understand the underlying emotions.

Enhancing Creativity and Growth: I use boredom as a signal to increase my creativity, curiosity, passion, motivation, and overall personal growth.

Be Creative - Plan and Act, Don't Default and Distract

Creating Strategies: I understand that without proactive strategies, my brain will default to distracting behaviors, intensifying negative feelings. To combat this, I creatively plan activities that stir the pot and bring a sense of novelty.

Simplifying Solutions: I embrace the idea that creative solutions can be simple. Activities like building forts or changing the rules of a game can inject creativity into my routine.

Go Deeper - In Passions, Motivations, and Mission in Life

Asking Deeper Questions: I explore deeper questions about my passions, motivations, and life mission. This process helps me identify activities that align with my calling in life.

Encouraging Connection: I engage in conversations with others, asking questions like, "What is something we have always wanted to do but have been afraid of?" This not only deepens my understanding of others but also fosters a sense of connection.

Be Connected in the Calm - Let It Be What It Is, But Let It Be With Others

Embracing Boredom: I release judgment around boredom, acknowledging that it just is. I learn to sit in the calm moments and appreciate the lessons boredom has to offer.

Deepening Relationships: I utilize moments of boredom to strengthen existing relationships. Sharing childhood memories, calling grandparents, or connecting with friends on a deeper level becomes a way to combat boredom collectively.

Tuning Into Synchrony: I recognize that sometimes the remedy for boredom is not movement but deeper connection. Tuning into the emotions and experiences of those around me allows for shared laughter, care, and a sense of togetherness.

As I navigate through boredom, I've come to understand that growth unfolds at its own pace, and sometimes, slowing down is the key to unlocking new perspectives and experiences.