HOW DO YOU KEEP BUSY???

[Gab_]

I don't know about anyone else, but when I'm having negative thoughts, the only way for me to stay on top of my head is to keep busy.

For me it helps to be productive and creative, whether that be by working, doing my assignments, exercising, painting, or writing poetry.

Does anyone out there want to share how they cope when they're feeling 'not so hot'???

[quirkywords]

I find if I feel have to keep busy I usually don’t do much and I feel bad about myself. If I do not have any expectations of what have to do, there is no pressure and whatever I do I can enjoy, even if it is just sorting out my sock drawer.

[topsy_]

Yes I agree with you. But I just find it impossible to get up off the lounge. BUT yesterday & today I’ve done a couple of things, only small things but I knew I would feel I’d let myself down if I didn’t do them.

And the thing that made the difference? The sun was out yesterday. All this time I’ve been beating myself up, when there might have actually been a concrete reason for how I’ve been feeling! I ought to know this stuff by now!!

[geoff]

Hello Topsy, some people are quite happy doing a jig saw puzzle, that occupies their mind.

Geoff.

[missep123]

Hi everyone,

For me I like to play video games- I get a sense of satisfaction when I complete a mission or get another mission. It gives me some sense of structure while in lockdown and like I am achieving something. Does anyone else feel this way?

[jtjt_4862]

Hi everyone,

I occupy my mind with a lot of video games. I enjoy the sensation of trying to break the game with combinations of character builds/skill builds. Sometimes I wish I could work as a game tester, but I know that job would end up feeling mundane and tedious. Other times I do Nonogram puzzles and random sketches and doodles (whenever I can, cuz art block sometimes prevent me from doing this).

Jt

Jt

[Gab_]

Hi Topsy, can you think of any activity you'd rather be doing?

[smallwolf]

Hello.

Keeping busy may be one way of coping. It was said to me that depression is thinking about the past and anxiety is worry about the future. The circuit breaker can be to find some way of bringing yourself to the present.

Some of the previous posts had suggestions but we also have to find what works for us. For myself I use apps on my phone and that might not work for you?

Anyhow if you want to chat more I am listening.

[Learn to Fly]

Hi smallwolf,

“It was said to me that depression is thinking about the past and anxiety is worry about the future. The circuit breaker can be to find some way of bringing yourself to the present.”

Mate, you got me thinking alright!

You have a great ability to compact an entire volume into a few, but really well chosen words. Thank you my friend!

My way of coping with negative thoughts.... Fresh air, walking my dog, exercising, reading a book, eating dark chocolate,...

I am trying to work on that “bringing myself to the present” bit. Trying on meditation but failing time wise.

Take care Guys!