Everything is going to be ok
2020 and life was feeling like a smooth ride. As a model, I was coasting on a wave of success. But then, like a tidal wave, COVID-19 hit. The world, including the fashion industry, screeched to a halt. Photoshoots vanished, runways went dark, and the future felt as uncertain as the virus itself. Panic started to creep in as my carefully constructed world crumbled around me.
It’s scary when everything you know changes. The ground feels like it’s shifting beneath your feet. But I’ve learned that even in the midst of chaos, there's a way to find calm and hope.
One of the hardest lessons I’ve learned is the difference between what I can control and what I can’t.
The external world was spiralling; COVID-19 was a force of nature, and the fashion industry was caught in its wake. I couldn’t control that. But I could control my internal world, my reactions, and how I chose to spend my time.
So, I turned inward. I focused on love, my family, and the things that brought me joy. Lost in a world of uncertainty, I found solace in the familiar. Classic cartoons, with their simple plots and vibrant colors, transported me to a world free from worry. Musicals, with their soaring melodies and inspiring stories, filled my heart with hope. And spending time with my family, laughing, sharing, and supporting each other, grounded me in love.
It’s scary when everything you know changes. The ground feels like it’s shifting beneath your feet. But I’ve learned that even in the midst of chaos, there's a way to find calm and hope.
My steps to finding calm
Acknowledge Your Feelings
It’s okay to feel scared, anxious, or overwhelmed. For a long time, I tried to bury those feelings, but it only made things worse. Now, I give myself permission to feel whatever I’m feeling, without judgment.
Practice Mindfulness
Focusing on the present moment is a game-changer. What can I see, hear, and feel right now? This simple act pulls me back to reality and helps to quiet the racing thoughts.
Deep Breathing
This might sound basic, but it’s incredibly effective. Inhale for four counts, hold for four, and exhale for six. It’s like hitting a reset button for my body.
Challenge Your Thoughts
Our minds can be our own worst enemies. I’ve caught myself spiraling into negative thought patterns. Now, I question those thoughts and try to replace them with more realistic ones.
Seek Support
Talking to a friend, family member, or therapist has been a lifeline. Sharing my feelings has helped me feel less alone.
Limit News Consumption:
Constant exposure to negative news can be overwhelming. I’ve set boundaries on how much news I consume.
Establish a Routine
Structure has been a savior. Creating a daily routine, even a loose one, gives me a sense of control.
Physical Activity
Exercise has been a lifesaver. It not only keeps me physically fit but also boosts my mood.
Healthy Lifestyle
I’ve prioritized sleep, nutrition, and hydration. Taking care of my body helps me take care of my mind.
Find Hope
It’s easy to get lost in the darkness, but there’s always a glimmer of hope. Focusing on what I’m grateful for and looking for opportunities for growth has helped me stay positive.
I’ve realized that change is inevitable. It’s how we respond to it that matters. By focusing on what I can control, nurturing my inner world, and seeking support, I’ve transformed fear into resilience, uncertainty into opportunity, and chaos into calm. I might not know exactly what the future holds, but I trust that I have the strength to face it. And that, in itself, is a powerful feeling.
