Ways to Replace Negative Feelings with Peace and Hope

Stress and anxiety are two common emotions. Over the past twelve months, many of us have felt more of these feelings than usual. If you’ve been feeling this way, it’s important to know that you’re not alone and that your emotions are normal. Taking time for yourself and practicing self-care can help replace negative feelings with peace and hope.

Practice self-care.

Self-care is essential for everyone. It can mean different things to different people, but ultimately, it’s the choices we make to take care of our emotional and physical well-being. These can include:

• Ensuring a healthy work/life balance

• Follow-up with medical care and annual exams

• Practice relaxation exercises and meditation

• Writing how you feel in a journal

• Exercising (choosing a form that you enjoy)

• Not saying “yes” when you want to say “no” (don’t overcommit)

· Do the things that make you feel good and let go of the ones that don’t. Remember, no one can take away your power to feel happy.

Practice speaking positively to yourself.

Positive self-talk can be a powerful way to increase your confidence, curb negative thoughts and remind yourself that you’re going to be ok. Examples include:

• “I can do it.”

• “I’m going to be ok.”

• “I’m proud of myself for trying. That took courage.”

• “I’ve gotten through this before. I’ll get through it again.”

• “My mistakes give me great opportunities to learn.”

Talk to someone you trust.

This person may be a spouse, partner or another family member, close friend, or someone else you can trust. It’s important to have someone who you feel safe and comfortable sharing about what’s really going on in your life and who you can turn to when you need a listening ear or some advice.

Be kind to yourself.

Being kind to yourself is just as important as being kind to others. Be careful not to be too hard on yourself if you make a mistake or if things don't go the way that you had hoped. You are special. Don't allow others to make you believe that you aren't. Remind yourself that:

• You deserve to be happy

• You are special

• Don’t feel bad about taking time for yourself

• Accept your thoughts and feelings without shame or guilt