It’s frustrating during this time not knowing what’s going to happen weeks from now. As I learned in my introduction to communication class, humans hate being uncertain. Here are some ways you can help gain control during this time.

Also, the uncertainty reduction theory is such a great tool if you want to help others feel more comfortable around you. I utilize this theory all the time while working at the nail salon.

Gain Control During This Uncertain Time

It’s hard to know when this pandemic is going to be over. As a college student in my last semester, I am scared of coming out of college unemployed. I’ve worked so hard to ensure that I have a job lined up post-graduation, from having numerous internships throughout my college career to keeping in contact with influential people in various industries.

It’s easy to start panicking during a time like this, which is why I would love to share with you all my ways of gaining more control during an uncertain time.

Writing It Down

I find writing things down gives me a better sense of my feelings. Tim Ferriss gave an amazing TedTalk a while back on how to turn your fears into motivation. I used this technique in mid-2018. During this time, I wanted to move to Los Angeles for a couple months and wrote down what I was afraid of, what I can do to prevent it from happening, and worst-case scenarios.

For those who are new to this method, essentially you have three columns: define, prevent, and repair. In the ‘define’ column, you list worst-case scenarios. In the ‘prevent‘ column, you list steps you can take to prevent those worst-case scenarios from happening. Lastly, in the ‘repair‘ column, you list how you can repair from those worst-case scenarios.

To give you all a better understanding – here is my list of fears during this pandemic.

Define

1. I’m going to get laid off
2. I’m going to be broke

Prevent

1. Have a discussion with my supervisor about my future with the company
2. Cut back on unnecessary expenses

Repair

1. Apply for other jobs or work harder on my blog and social media to increase streams of revenue
2. Rely on my parents for help (although this would be my last resort as I’m very proud about being independent, haha)

My process is pretty vague and is only half of the method that Tim Ferriss discusses, but it’s okay! Tim Ferriss’ method is actually used for turning your fears into motivation, but writing down such fears also helps gain control during uncertain times like this. I find that making lists of my anxieties gives me more control and understanding of where my feelings are coming from.

Scheduling Your Day

It can be hard to achieve a work-life balance while working from home. Most non-essential businesses are closed and it’s easy to throw yourself into work since it’s the only thing most people currently have. Scheduling free time and rest days is such an important step for everyone’s health.

It adds structure to your day.

You can schedule a 10-minute walk around your neighborhood or even nap time! I notice that scheduling a quick break helps with my productivity and mindset.

Side note: Scheduling a call with your Mom is also always a good idea – I need to call my Mom more often!

Saying “No”

It’s okay to say no to things you don’t want to do. If you’re a people-pleaser like me, it can be hard to disappoint people. We are already living in a stressful time and you don’t need more stress by doing things you don’t want to do. Self-care means being able to prioritize your needs above others. If you can’t say no, you’re not helping others.

What are some methods you are using to gain control of your priorities during this time?