Despite the ongoing pandemic and changes in lifestyle we have adopted (not much choice there I guess), this switch of pace definitely has brought on some positives along the way.

I, for one, have traveled internationally and domestic (in Japan) despite the obvious challenges during these 2 years and continue to learn about being flexible.

However, I understand and appreciate that individuals are unique, and everyone has different views on what is happening, what is good, what is bad, what stresses them out and the list goes on.

In today's post, I want to share my personal tips on how to deal with feeling hopeless.

For example, there is yet another variant spreading and Japan has decided to completely close borders to foreigners!

Say you were expecting to travel to Japan, but now you cannot. I would think one would feel extremely disappointed that you must cancel travel plans. Furthermore, you don't know when you can fly - another expectation that you cannot manage well without information or details unavailable at this time. So how do you cope?

Watching the news around the clock probably will do you more harm than anything else.

As mentioned before, during such unpredictable times, you must be able to stay resilient.

Instead of getting frustrated, what will you do to prepare for the trip in the future?

Can you prepare for your trip by learning a few key phrases in Japanese?

How can you use this time to reflect on the positives?

Some concrete advice here that may help with stress management:

1. Start a journal, and write down why you think you feel hopeless

2. Talk to friends or family about whether or not they have experienced something similar lately, and feel free to take the time to check in on how they are doing

3. Are you interested in finding out more about what you don't know? In this case, I recommend that you pick up a book (Kindle has such a huge library, but I prefer going to the bookstore and looking at physical books that you can browse) and see how that makes you feel. If you feel frustrated, don't just complain, do something to make it better!

I remember when I used to live in Hong Kong and my colleagues were curious because no Japanese person was working for this one firm I worked for. They asked me what news source I look at for my news updates, and I said "everything" - they were shocked. I am curious about so many things, and by looking and reading through different angles on a specific topic, you start to understand the narratives.

I hope you can take some of these tips and apply them into your own life!

Stress can lead to so many different diseases and unwanted symptoms.

Make sure you are aware and mindful of yourself, surroundings and your health.

Wishing for a happy December!

#mentalhealth #wellness #travel #mindful #journal #friends #family #book #knowledge #curious