Hey! Kirsten here from Midnight Lettering Co. I’m in my twenties, have a chronic illness, suffer with my mental wellbeing and have just co-founded a small business with my wife during a global pandemic. If we’re not already, let’s be friends!

Let’s also normalise chatting about our mental wellbeing. The more we talk the less awkward it will feel.

So, I’m here today to give you a gentle reminder: it’s time to be kind to your mind. 

Did you know that your thoughts aren’t facts? They are simply temporary reflections that pop into your mind and they aren’t always true. Your mood heavily impacts the state of your thoughts. 

It’s important to be mindful about how much you believe your own thoughts. However, it can start to feel endless when you enter that negative headspace. So, here’s 7 ways you can shift your focus when you feel consumed by your thoughts. 

GET A GOOD NIGHT OF SLEEP

Sleep and mental wellbeing are closely related. We all have nights where it feels impossible to fall asleep, or even stay asleep. Try these affirmations for falling asleep: 

• TOMORROW IS A NEW DAY
• THERE IS NOTHING I NEED TO DO NOW BUT RELAX
• WHAT I HAVE DONE TODAY IS ENOUGH
• I DESERVE A GOOD NIGHT OF SLEEP
• I RELEASE ALL OF THE TENSION FROM MY BODY

Of course, if you suffer from poor sleep for a long period, speak to your GP. Sleep problems can be symptoms of other conditions.

BE MINDFUL & SET INTENTIONS

‘You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step’ – Martin Luther King

Practise mindfulness by focusing on the here and now.

Find something you want to grow and begin to water it. Start with 10 minutes of reading a book, no screens before breakfast, or drinking more water each day.

Small daily changes can turn into wonderful habits. 

TAKE 30 MINUTES TO GO FOR A WALK IN NATURE

It could be a stroll along the beach or a hike in the woods. Research shows that spending time outdoors surrounded by nature can increase energy levels, reduce depression and boost your well being. 

START POSITIVE SELF TALK

Self talk is something you do naturally throughout your waking hours. Positive self talk is a wonderful way to increase self confidence and deter negative emotions.

SAY THIS: I’M PROUD OF MYSELF FOR EVEN TRYING.

NOT THAT: I FAILED AND EMBARRASSED MYSELF.

Positive self talk is so important. These messages you send yourself can either help you to succeed or leave you paralyzed by fear. 

TRACK GRATITUDE AND ACHIEVEMENTS DAILY

Having a morning routine is a great way to start the day. Pick 3 things you are grateful for and either write them in a journal or say them out loud. From having a sleep in to having a chat with a friend, there’s something to be grateful for each day. 

Similarly, nothing beats the feeling of accomplishment. Track 3 things you were able to accomplish the day before in the same way. 

SHOW COMPASSION

Compassion is so much more than just a kind reaction to others’ problems. It is also a natural skill that can be worked on and increase your overall happiness. 

Start by being compassionate with yourself. Praise yourself for each small success like making the bed. 

Another way to show compassion is to encourage others. Tell others about the strengths and talents you see in them. Show your support by using encouraging words and reassuring them that you’ll be there even in the most difficult situations. 

PRACTICE FORGIVENESS

Your happiness has a direct link to the state of your mental health and well being. Learn to forgive yourself for any mistakes. It offers both freedom and peace of mind.

When you get stuck in a negative headspace, continually thinking about these emotions is unproductive and can have an impact on yourself and those around you.

The act of letting go of pain, resentment and bitterness actually results in you feeling much happier. So, think of practicing forgiveness as a gift to you, and not someone else. 

Boosting your mental wellbeing is a process. Learning to recognise the signs of poor mental health and taking steps towards bettering yourself will take time. Learn more about Felicia’s battle with medical and medications here. 

After a trauma in my early 20s I became passionate about becoming an advocate for mental wellbeing. It’s been a journey to get to this place where I feel comfortable enough to share my experiences. It took even longer to be in this place where I love to write about ways to help you. 

But, I also love to listen, so if you ever need to chat my DMs are always open. I know that sometimes talking to a stranger can be easier. Sending so much love and strength to you!

Xx Kirsten | Co-founder of Midnight Lettering Co