A healthy daily routine can keep your mental health on track, so how do you cope when something disrupts it?
There are many things in life we just can’t seem to get control of, no matter how hard we push or pull. These can be anything from big world events, to other people’s emotions through to boring everyday things like the weather.
Introducing the great beast of life: the uncontrollable. Before we get into the depths of what it is and how to tackle it, it’s important to remember that we can't control what happens to us. We can, however, control the outcome and the experience we take from it.
Student Hut is here to help. We've got some tips on how to manage the uncontrollable aspects of life. Creating a routine helps you stay grounded when things feel out of control. A reliable routine can also help you feel more secure in stressful times.
What is “the uncontrollable”?
The uncontrollable in its simplest form, and to no surprise, are the things in life we just can’t control. Whether that’s how someone acts, or getting sick or just general challenges we face daily, it’s something everyone experiences. The overwhelming nature of life tends to go hand in hand with anxiety. And not being able to control a situation makes it stressful and overwhelming, creating or heightening feelings of anxiety.
How do you control the uncontrollable?
Remember that you’re not alone. Every single person on the planet faces things out of their control, no matter their status or life experiences. It happens to everyone.
First off, you need to acknowledge that some things in life are out of your control, and to focus on the things that you can change. After acknowledging the uncontrollable, you can start to embrace it by managing your expectations.
Relinquishing your sense of control can be hard especially if your life revolves around it. Try creating a list of the things you can and can’t control, letting go of the ones you can’t. How you perceive your situation and the emotions you experience is something you can and will always be able to control.
Tips for a good daily routine for students
Whilst embracing the uncontrollable might sound easy, it can be hard to ease into. Having something to fall back onto, like a routine, will help you embrace and change your life for the better. Here are some tips on creating a routine and sticking to it, regaining some of the control in your life when everything seems to spiral out of your power:
- Structure your routine into sections. As long or short as your attention allows.
- Set small manageable goals. This will keep you from getting overwhelmed.
- Choose your priorities. Make sure essential daily tasks are given enough time.
- Don’t go too crazy. There are 24 hours in a day, but sleep should be a third of that.
- Leave room for breaks. It’s vital that you break up your day with movement and hydration.
- Reward yourself. Even for just sticking to your routine. Gamify it.
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