Life is full of surprises. Some are positive; some can prove to be more challenging. It’s the reaction to the unknown that defines us. A crisis is subjective, unplanned, and can range from a small occurrence to something catastrophic. Although we may not know when change is coming, we can be prepared for some of it with just a little bit of forethought. There are several things you can do to set yourself up for success after a crisis.
Don’t live outside your means. Living paycheck to paycheck is difficult and takes an emotional toll. But, scraping to make rent or mortgage, bills, etc. becomes even more stressful when other struggles are going on in life. There are some steps you can take to live within your means. Downsizing your home can help reduce your monthly payments and give you some ability to save more. Make a budget and stick to it. When formulating the budget, take a close look at your spending habits. You can save by cutting out eating at restaurants, cable tv, and entertainment costs. All of this will help set you up to be more comfortable in the future when the unexpected happens.
There are some useful pastimes you can take up that will enlarge your life skillset and ultimately help set you up for future success. Gardening is fun and has functionality. Growing some of your own food will help you financially as well as ensure you always have something to eat. There are plenty of herbs, fruits, and vegetables that are easy to grow and require a relatively small amount of space. Learning to sew is another way to cut costs. You can do your own alterations, pillowcases, and other useful household items, and maybe even your own clothes.
Finally, take care of yourself. When you are physically and mentally healthy, you are more equipped to take on any challenge that comes your way. Regular exercise is important and doesn’t have to break the bank. It also aids in reducing stress and getting a good night’s sleep. You can also try fifteen minutes of relaxation and mindfulness to help your brain unwind and begin the morning with clarity. This will help your mental state, making it easier to take on challenging situations.
Hardships are a part of life. Planning ahead and bettering yourself will drastically increase your chances of success on the other side of a crisis.
