14 Comments
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Rebecca's avatar

I love the reminder of the power of making the “what I CAN control” list! Great way to reframe and move forward when feeling the inevitable spiral when things aren’t going great

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Shira Gill's avatar

So glad! I found making this list to be very empowering - a great way to break free from a mental spiral. x

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Anita Darcel Taylor's avatar

I'm in a yucky place these weeks. Thanks for reminding me that I'm doing some of the right things to care for self. I have a heart condition and presently it's being a pain in the rear. Sleep is horrible, walking impossible. But I can eat well (30 different plant-based foods in 7 days), I can invite friends to sit with me and talk about books, I can drown my home in the sound of cello and jazz. I can even declutter my writing table drawer (I made that my last task because skeletons.) And I'm trying to appreciate decaf coffee. Your list of "what I can control" is good. So good that I'm going to craft my own. Being sidelined by heart disease doesn't mean I must be sidelined in life. Thanks.

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Shira Gill's avatar

Exactly. I find that when life feels particularly overwhelming or challenging focusing on the things we CAN control is a useful way to reset and redirect our brains. Thanks for sharing, and best of luck with your list making. x

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Anita Darcel Taylor's avatar

I've completed my list, the big ticket item being that I control how much energy I devote to my art. But, I also cleaned the writing table drawers and found a 39 year old love letter from the one who proposed marriage and to whom I declined. Now, what to do with this slip of clutter? Any ideas Shira?

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Shira Gill's avatar

Some questions that might help guide your decision:

How does it make you feel?

Is it adding value or clutter to your home and life?

Would you miss it if it was gone?

Hope this helps! x

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Bridie Loverro's avatar

Fun that you'll be at Zibby's Bookshop! I am a book editor at Zibby Books - I hope you can connect with her while you are there!

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Shira Gill's avatar

Oh wow! Small world - wish you could come say hi too! x

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Angela Kosmeder's avatar

Love this list!! Also can't wait to register for the event. I love supporting WCK!!!

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Shira Gill's avatar

So glad! WCK is doing the most incredible work!

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Maria DeVoto's avatar

The get moving advice is so real! I’m trying to get back into my habit of morning walks this month

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Shira Gill's avatar

Yes! My solo morning walks have been such a game changer for my mental health. x

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The Powerful You's avatar

An important reminder! 💙 Thanks xo

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rae johnson's avatar

solving small mazes also has helped me when in a catastrophizing mental spiral. reminds me there’s a solution somewhere that i’ll get to at some point and all of the other things that are feeling like they’re going to absolutely take over are less important if i can find my path

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