Take Control in 2021

By Matt Eschler

The year 2020 has been a wild, claustrophobic ride for most of us. We wonder what possibilities 2021 could have in store for us. If we listen closely to the 24-hour news cycles, we are tempted to find relief in the possibility that vaccinations for COVID-19 will be widely available, that some sporting events may come back to life, and that travel may become a safe endeavor.

Nationally and in our own neighborhoods, we are fascinated by the arguing forces both for and against mask wearing. We are anxious about the political contest for our presidential election. We wonder if our students will be learning from expensive screens or sitting in live classes, and we collectively feel a little “cabin fever” from staying at home most of the time. In fact, if you take a deep breath and think about it, 2020 was a year of uncertainty and unanswered questions: Can I go into this store without a mask? Am I being judged because I am wearing a mask? What is really going to happen if this pandemic continues?

According to one research study, adults in 2020 reported considerably higher rates of anxiety and depression. Disproportionate amounts of stress and anxiety can be managed by following three easy-to-be-accomplished guidelines. 1. Breath! Simply slow everything down.

Look around the spot where you are standing or sitting, notice what is around you, and breath! This is a centering exercise. It will slow down your thoughts and your heart rate. Oxygen is awesome for stress. 2. Limit the time you are spending on social media, watching television, and reading the news. For most of us, catching up on the news twice a day for a half hour is enough to remain aware. Listening, reading, and arguing on various platforms are not healthy stress-reducing activities. Instead, keep a gratitude journal. Go online and habitually post a #bethankful note. 3. Step back from what you are not able to actively control (masks, vaccines, quarantine mandates, school systems) and analyze your area of stewardship.

What can you direct, guide, manage, or control? Where do you have expertise?

Do your work in these arenas. If you are not an expert on vaccines, do not waste time arguing vaccinations. Listen to the experts you trust, and stay focused on managing what you can oversee.

If you want to travel, find a healthminded travel agency online, and map out the places where you can legally and ethically travel. This activity will be much more productive than going to an online platform to argue over travel restrictions over which you have no control.

Anxiety feeds on shallow breathing and increases when you search for avenues of control or rules to enforce that are outside your purview or area of influence. Feelings of powerlessness—of having no voice—cause us to feel frustrated, angry, and anxious. A careful concentration on where you have a voice, how you can monitor the guidelines, and when you can adjust will bring about a sense of peace and reduced anxiety.

Coping with stress and anxiety in healthy ways will make you and your community stronger!

About the Author Matt lives in St. George, Utah, where he and his wife, Chris, are enjoying their life with each other. Since their children have grown up and moved out to pursue their dreams, Matt and Chris travel the world. They want to visit 200 countries before they are done. Matt and Chris are active in their community and enjoy working out, training for marathons, and spending time participating in numerous activities with their adult children. Matt received a PhD in psychology. He is focused on the arena of resolving personal conflicts and improving interpersonal relationships. In addition to his doctorate degree, Matt has earned a master’s degree in marriage and family therapy, studied criminal justice and received a category one license with Peace Officer Standards and Training, and received a degree in the Arts of Business Management. Matt is a professor at Dixie State University and hopes to be part of the positive growth of southern Utah.