There’s entirely too much happening in the world (both in the actual world and in my personal world) right now for me to wrap my head around.
The list goes on and on and on. And while some things may seem to pale in comparison to the truly huge problems in the world, it’s all on my list of things to overthink at any given moment. I think I’m about 20 seconds away of spiralling completely. Okay, that is better than actively spiralling, but still.
I’m this close to packing up my stuff, and noping off to a remote corner of the world where I can sit in peace. I’ll bring a boatload of books, snacks, and coffee. And my wife. That was implied, but it’s good to be explicit. All that should hold me over long enough to calm down. If you ask me, it sounds like a solid plan. I mean, as a Pisces, one of my biggest talents is escapism, clearly. And while this plan is nearly flawless and I don’t need suggestions on how to improve it, if you have better ideas on how to deal with *wildly gestures* all of this, please don’t hesitate to tell me.
I thought about listing all of the things that are contributing to my descent into madness, but it seems counter-productive. It won’t help anyone to see a list of problems (global and personal), followed by nearly nonsensical rambling. In stead I’m going to make a list of the little things that keep me sane. The things that don’t involve a completely ludicrous undertaking to a remote forest in Sweden. Although I do stand by that plan. Just saying.
How I’m staying sane
Expensive coffees at cute cafes
Okay, before you start, just hear me out: everything sucks and is expensive and won’t get any better any time soon. If it makes you feel better to get your little coffee at the cutesy little cafe, just do it! My wife and I try to go get coffee together every weekend, and it’s honestly such a good time. Starting our Sundays over oat lattes we didn’t make ourselves and talking about whatever we feel like? Come on, there are worse ways to spend your time and money. Highly recommend, also works by yourself, just a bring a book. Or not. Whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Books, books, books
If you like to read, get a new book. Don’t order it online, go to a bookstore, browse for at least 15 minutes (but definitely do it longer if you have the time!), and then pick a book that makes you feel a bit of joy. Whether it’s romance, fantasy, crime, YA… It doesn’t matter. If it’ll bring you joy, get it. Then head over to the previously mentioned cafe to read it. Or go home, make yourself some tea and get comfy on your couch. Again, whatever makes you feel comfortable.
Use the floofs
Do you have pets? Do you have friends with pets? Great. It’s time to use the floofs. And by that I mean: take your dog (or your friend’s dog) on a long walk. Thanks to climate change, it’s not cold yet, and it’s fairly dry. Take advantage of it and go outside. Your mental health will thank you, and your dog will be so happy. What’s not to like? Alternatively, cuddle your cat. Do this at your own risk. My cat would just walk away from you, but I have it on good authority some cats will attack. Worth it? Totally, I mean, you got to cuddle a cat. But just be careful, you know.
Retail therapy (in moderation)
I’m a BIG fan of retail therapy. HOWEVER!!! We don’t need more things. No, not even that cute cardigan that looks just like the one in the cardigan music video (Swifties, I’m looking at you here). Now, that being said, if there’s something that’ll make your space a bit more cosy, a bit more warm, and you can comfortably afford it? Treat yourself to the candle. Treat yourself to the fuzzy socks. You’re allowed one thing that’s just for you in these crazy times. If someone makes you feel bad about it, tell them “Melody said it was okay”.
It’s nice to have a friend
The absolute best way to stay sane is to meet up with your friends. Have a little dinner party (even if it’s just the two of you). Dress nice, set the table, and just enjoy each other’s company. Or take a stroll through the city and talk until you need a water break. And then keep talking. Build a blanket fort and watch your favourite Disney movies. Whatever it is you like to do together, get together and do just that. It’ll make you feel better, I promise.
Truly, it will get better. And I’m saying that to myself as much as I’m saying that to you. It is one of the hardest beliefs to hold on to when everything is on fire, but I’m not letting it go.
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