Surviving the Waiting Period
Waiting is a challenging period for many people. Whether you are waiting for a job interview, examination results, or medical test results, the period can be frustrating and nerve-wracking. During such times, it’s vital to stay positive and keep yourself distracted from negative thoughts. Below are some tips to help you survive the waiting period.
Stay Busy
One of the best ways to survive the waiting period is by staying busy. Hobbies are a great way to keep your mind focused on something else. Engage in activities that make you happy such as reading, writing, exercising. Consider activities that take your mind entirely out of your current situation, such as traveling, knitting, or woodworking. You could also volunteer at a local charity or help a friend with a task they need assistance with.
Stay Connected
Sometimes the waiting period may be isolating, and you may feel alone. During such times, it’s essential to stay connected with friends and family. They can provide a support system to help you get through difficult times. You could call or text someone daily, or even go out and meet new people, take walks, or even join a support group. This not only helps with distracting your mind, but it also allows you to get support from the people you trust.
Set Small Goals
Another effective way to survive the waiting period is by setting small goals. Depending on your situation, set small, achievable goals, and work towards them every day. For instance, if you are waiting for job interview results, you could set a goal to apply for a certain number of job openings each day. When you reach the target or achieve a goal, it gives you a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, which helps ease anxiety and stress.
Meditate and Exercise
The waiting period can be stressful, and it triggers anxiety, which can take a toll on your physical and emotional health. Meditation can be a great way to keep your mind calm and focused. Allocate a few minutes every day to meditate. You could use a phone app or sign up for a meditation class. The process involves clearing your mind of negative thoughts and focusing on your breath. Exercise is also an excellent way to stay healthy and distracted from negative thoughts. It could be walking, jogging, or hitting the gym.
Talk to A Professional
The waiting period can be difficult, and it’s natural to experience a range of emotions. Sometimes, you may need to speak to a mental health professional for support and guidance. They can help you to understand the situation and provide you with tools to deal with the emotions you are experiencing. You could also attend therapy sessions, join support groups, or talk to life coaches for motivation and positivity.
Keep A Journal
Journaling is a great way to express your emotions and thoughts. Keeping a journal helps put things in perspective and gives you a sense of control over the situation. Take a few minutes every day to write down your thoughts, hopes, and fears. You could even document your journey and how you deal with the waiting period. Writing helps you to look at the situation objectively, which can help alleviate some of the negative feelings you are experiencing.
Stay Positive
Finally, staying positive during the waiting period can be challenging, but it's essential. Writing down positive affirmations, repeating them to yourself, and visualizing the outcome can help increase feelings of positivity and hope. Surround yourself with positive people, things, and thoughts. Avoid negativity from social media or internet searches. If you are struggling to stay positive, try humor, it’s an excellent way to diffuse the anxiety and make you feel better.
In conclusion, the waiting period can be difficult and stressful. It triggers anxiety, fear, and uncertainty, but it’s essential to stay positive and busy. Using these tips to distract yourself, stay connected, and set small achievable goals can help you get through this time. Remember to stay positive, find humor in your situation, and if necessary, seek professional help to navigate your emotions. The waiting period will come to an end, and you will emerge from it, stronger and wiser.