How to Survive Even When Times are Tough with Dr. Caroline Walker

This week, Dr Caroline Walker joins us on another episode of the COVID-19 Supporting Doctors series to share key strategies you need to learn to keep going through the crisis.Episode Highlights[00:56] Our Prospects in 2021Everyone is excited to leave 2020 behind.COVID-19 is still present despite the promise of vaccines.We are experiencing an acute stress response due to scary, threatening or difficult situations.[04:28] Pacing OurselvesPeople are too tired to keep going.We need to pace ourselves.It may be hard to take some time off, but we have to look after ourselves.[07:33] Self-Care BasicsStart with the simplest things.Drink water.Eat, sleep and rest well.Do deep breathing exercises.Your self-care methods should be sustainable for your lifestyle.[11:46] Importance of Breaks and Boundaries Limit your social media exposure.Don’t worry about missing the news.Learn to set boundaries.[16:10] Learning to PrioritiseSet your emails or phones off at certain times.Learn to do your tasks in batches.[20:07] Staying ConnectedTalk and catch up with people who are important to you.Check on your team regularly.[24:50] Planning and Setting GoalsYou need to plan and design your life.Permit yourself to pursue things that are important to you.Ask yourself questions to guide you towards your goals[31:18] Culture of RushingCaroline recommends the concept of underscheduling.It’s normal to be overbooked, but it is not sustainable nor healthy.When we keep rushing, we lose so much joy and meaning in our life.[36:28] Strategies to Keep You Going ForwardStay alive and survive, especially during these times.Breathe slowly.Stay connected with others.Stay within your zone of power.Enjoyed This Podcast?Write a review and share this with your friends.Sign up for a FREE workbook.Join the Shapes Collective Facebook group.Find out more about our training here.Email Rachel or reach her on LinkedIn or Twitter.Podcast LinksMake Time by Jake Knapp and John Zeratsky5 minute team check-in and COVID team wellbeing toolkitEssentialism by Greg McKeowneGPlearningHeadspace