Today, I planned to write about my new rewards program (which I so need to put into place), but the reality of living in a world of stress made me change my mind. Let’s talk rewards next week, ok?
I really try not to write about work because it’s not what this blog is about… but every once in a while something happens that impacts my healthy living. And today, I need to write about this, and I’m hopeful that writing about it will bring a little more peace and help me to realize that I’m doing better than I think with it all.
Two Thursdays ago, my department went through an unexpected layoff process. While I still have a job, my world got shook up pretty good. Not only did we lose two great people on our team that worked so darn hard, but those of us left behind have a ton of work to do to make up for their upcoming departures.
I’m not the best with change. I totally admit this. Once I have my world running well, I want it to just stay like that… indefinitely. That’s where I feel most grounded, most assured of what I am doing and most secure. Right now, I feel like I’m trying to catch my balance… and, frankly, it feels terrible.
I’m working way too many hours trying to get my business in order, I’m dreaming about graphs and charts, and mostly… I’m exhausted.
While I’m worried about how I’m going to handle the upcoming week, how I’m going to hit my sales quotas, and how I’m going to survive a big presentation coming up next week. I’m equally concerned about how I’m going to make it through this stressful period without eating my feelings.
As a recovering binge eater, an emotional eater, and a girl with very little time on her hands right now, I need a plan…
Today, I’ll be sharing how I’m navigating this stressful period. What’s working, and what I’ll need to get to the other side. In many ways, I’m using this post to establish my plan… And, boy, do I need a plan!
Establish a Strong Meal Plan
First and foremost, I’m incredibly appreciative that I am on a heathy eating plan right now. Had I approached this period without a plan, there’s no telling what I’d have eaten. I’m guessing that it would have been some of the dozens and dozens of donuts in my office this week. Why did everyone bring fancy donuts this week?
Having snacks on hand (of the non-donut variety) at work for the day, and extras for when I stayed late in the evening really made the week work. I’ve snacked on fruits, veggies, and prepared salads. All of which have helped me stay on track… and eating poorly was the least of my worries.
I’ve even planned to bring extra food into the office on Monday, so I don’t have to deal with it as the week goes on. Multiple lunches, snack bars, and a few pears… I’m set for a few days and have extras on hand if hunger strikes unexpectedly. I’d rather eat an extra pear than a donut any day…
Healthy Comfort Foods Help
When I’m stressed, I often reach for comfort foods. Warm, creamy meals tend to be my favorite during these times. Pastas, potatoes, and all the starches really hit the spot.
Now, I’m not suggesting that you smother your feelings in carbohydrates, but I’d like to offer a few ideas for healthy alternatives that will quell the craving. For example, here’s a few NTTC recipes that can be used to soothe your spirit, while keeping you on your healthy eating plan…
Left to Right: Slow Cooker Beef Stew, Lightened Up Biscuits and Gravy, and Lasagna Soup
If you’re on the Jenny Craig program, I’m eating the Four Cheese Ziti Marinara, Salisbury Steak, and Mac and Cheese.
Take a Break with Friends
My friend Jaede was in town this week, and it was amazing to have her here during this time when, frankly, I needed a friend. I spent two evenings out with her, and while the meals weren’t 100% on my plan… the mental break from all that has been going on was just what the doctor ordered.
This “friend break” technique will be something I leverage this week as well. I’m planning to go to a healthy cooking demonstration on Tuesday with friends. I absolutely know that work will try to pull me away, but I’m going. You can’t give up all the fun things, after all…
Be Selfish with Your Time
This one seems a little difficult to do at times when there’s a lot of demand on your life, but for me, it’s essential. Example, I had some potential plans this weekend and I just couldn’t. I cancelled, and didn’t think about it again.
Until further notice, I have to just simplify my days, and that might mean only saying yes to things that I really want to do for the time being.
This will also mean that I have more time for rejuvenating myself, meditating, and being creative. I need these things in my life, and I’ll be selfish if that’s what it takes to retain them…
Go to Bed
Put down the laptop, stop looking at the iPad, and go to bed. I’m a firm believer that without good sleep, I become completely worthless.
I’ve been trying to fall asleep early each night, and I’ve been using Lavender Oil I picked up at Apothecary Tinctura every single night. I simply place a few drops in my palms, rub them together, and then inhale the scent. Moments later, I shut off my bedside lamp, and head off to dream land.
I can’t say that this technique has kept the graphs and numbers out of my dreams, but the ritual of it all tells my body that it’s sleepy time… and helps me to wind down.
Get to the Gym… or Not
Adding this one last, after going back and forth on it… Normally, I would definitely be hitting the gym to work out my additional stress. However, I’m still recovering. It’s just not worth it to test the ol’ back right now.
If you’re in good health and not injured, I highly recommend it… but you won’t see me there this week.
That’s what I’ve been doing to stay healthy and to stay sane during the process. How do you handle periods of high stress?