The more interactions I have with people the more I realize how important having good/healthy coping tools is for a successful human being. Having an arsenal of coping tools is essential to one's ability to navigate the unavoidable obstacles life throws at us. It's so much easier said than done and a lot of times I find myself mentally checking things off my list as I attempt to sooth myself during stressful periods of time with a negative attitude and a lot of doubt of their success. It seem like collectively using many of my tools is what makes the noticeable and substantial difference in a situation, and if I don't have many skills to make a collective difference it very much feels like putting a band aid on a bullet hole. As I've worked with people and got to know people I realize that the people that can't cope and that don't have a long list of skills, seem to make things worse for themselves, which only adds to their stress level. It's a domino effect- good or bad. As I've been faced with stressful situations I've realized that my arsenal maybe isn't as full as I thought it was and I need to be constantly adding to my list of coping options as insurance for future stresses.
Here is my current list of coping tools I use regularly, and that feel the most effective:
1. Exercise- running in particular
2. Taking a bath
3. Writing
4. Eating chocolate
5. Sleeping
6. Cleaning
7. Taking care of my family
8. Talking to friends/family
9. Being creative
10. Watching T.V.
11. Going for a drive
12. Making a list of things within my control that I'm doing right
13. Hiking- being outdoors
14. Shopping
As I read back through this list I realize it really isn't very comprehensive, what happens if one of my stressors is that I can't get out and move around? Nearly all of my tools involve being able to move around. I need to work on developing coping tools that I can do when movement is limited. I also noticed that the tools that don't require much movement are probably the least healthy ways on the list to cope, so I need to be aware of that as well when I am developing my coping skills- little movement- but healthy and/or productive. Watching T.V. or shopping can be really effective tools, but they can also easily add to my stress when they aren't managed well. I need some good tools that I don't have monitor quite so closely.
I spent some time researching and talking to friends and family and came up with a list of other coping tools I may want to work on/develop:
1. Knitting/crocheting
2. Reading
3. Find someone to serve
4. Cook/Bake
5. Paint
6. Sew
7. Crossword puzzles/ word finds/ puzzles
8. Walk
9. Garden
10. Organize something
11. Face mask- Foot scrub (Self care)
12. Yoga
13. Essential oils
14. Write down worst case scenario and ways you could cope with that
15. Go see a therapist
16. Create a schedule and set boundaries
17. Go to lunch with someone who is a good support
18. Watch funny videos
19. Learn a new skill or develop an existing skill
20. Meditate
21. Play with a pet - care for a pet
22. Keep a gratitude journal
23. Pray
24. Adult coloring books
25. Make jewelry
My goal for the week- find and practice three ways to cope that don't require movement (or limited movement) that are effective and healthy.
What coping skills do you use? What ones are move effective for you? How comprehensive is your list of coping skills? How effectively do you use your skills when a stressful situation presents itself?
