Is it 80 degrees in October (again) because of La Niña, normal weather patterns, or climate change? And what about the hurricanes, the wildfires, the record heat? It's probably a mix of all three things but if you're feeling anxious about climate change, you're not alone.
Around the world, many people are experiencing climate anxiety and it makes sense. Climate anxiety is a normal response to a serious problem. It's okay to feel worried or scared about the future of our planet. However, it's important to manage these feelings so they don't consume us.
Even though it feels overwhelming and impossible now, let's take a step back for a few minutes and find resilience, confidence and hope, instead of letting fear take over.
Building Resilience: A Path Forward
Give Anxiety What it Wants: This is the opposite of what I'd normally recommend, but I'm doing a lot of twisting and turning in this post.
Anxiety loves action and control. While we might not be able to single- handedly control the climate, one of the most powerful things we can do for our planet and to calm our nervous systems is take action, and the good news is, even small steps can make a big difference.
Break it Down: Looking at climate change at one gigantic problem that has to be solved ASAP feels overwhelming. Instead of focusing on the size of the problem, find one small step you can take. Volunteering with or organizing a local projects to pick up trash to keep plastics out of the fields and woods or organize a ride-share board toreduce your carbon footprint, or advocating for policies that promote sustainability in your community all count.
Grow Your Community: Since we know that this is an issue that is on the minds of many people, connecting with like-minded people in your community and online can also provide support and inspiration and reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety. You'll also make a bigger impact when you find your tribe, and what a great way to make new friends that have similar interests.
Stay In the Moment: Right now, you are safe and eveything is truly fine. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and intentional breathing, can help calm your mind and reduce stress. Focusing on what is going well, what you're grateful for, and what you know is 100% true brings you back to where you are - reading this blog post, not in the scary future that your mind is creating. These techniques can help you stay grounded and focused on the present moment.
Ask For Support: If you find yourself anxious more often than not, worrying about climate change on top of other challenges in your life, ask for support. A life coach can help you navigate these feelings and develop strategies to manage stress and anxiety.
The Role of Life Coaching in Overcoming Climate Anxiety
A life coach can be a game changer when it comes to managing climate anxiety. Coaching can help you:
Challenge negative thoughts: Replace worry and fear about the future with hope and optimism that is rooted in the present.
Set goals: Create green goals that fit into your life and give you time to have fun serving your community in ways that combat climate change.
Develop coping strategies: Learn effective techniques for managing stress and anxiety.
Build self-confidence: Believe in your ability to make a difference.
Find your purpose: Discover how your unique skills and passions can contribute to a sustainable future.
Ready to take the next step? Book a free consultation today to learn how to turn climate anxiety into climate action, and learn how I can help you overcome stress and anxiety, become more confident and resilient, and have fun!
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