Is Pandemic comparison a thing?

Is "pandemic comparison" really a thing?

Unfortunately, it is.

As if social media wasn't problematic enough for many of us when it comes to comparison, now as we near the anniversary of the pandemic and people are looking back, I'm hearing more women say:

• I wish I had taken advantage of the time to finally set my goals/vision for my life.

• I should have taken this time to really lose weight.

• This would have been a good time to start some new habits.

• Well, so much for starting my own business....

Stop “Should-ing” Yourself!

Yes, I recommend taking the time to look back on this year. But, pleeeease do it from a place of curiosity and gratitude, not judging and comparing.

Did you get out of bed (most days)? WIN! Did you eat and feed those who depend on you (chips and salsa for dinner counts)? WIN! Did you show up for work (yoga pants and no makeup)? WIN!

Did you lose 20 pounds, score a Peleton, or start a new hobby? Fantastic, also a WIN!

Listen friends, there is no way to know what anyone else's situation was over the last year. Lost jobs, health or loved ones. Or, found flexibility, freedom, and time. We simply cannot know.

I want to remind you to take extra care of yourself over the next couple of weeks. I recently learned about the phenomenon of the "anniversary reaction" from a trauma therapist I follow, Dr. Anita Philips. We've all been through trauma this past year, regardless of how negatively or positively this time has affected us. The idea behind this anniversary reaction is this...the body remembers.

Even if you think it was "no big deal" and you're "okay"...the body remembers. So, take care of your body, mind and spirit in an extra special way the next few weeks - move it, nurture it, feed it.

Celebrating your WINS (and saying good-bye to the "shoulds") with you!