Healthy Goals to Overcome Grief

This is an article guest written by Camille Johnson. Thank you Camille for contributing to Astrodharma! Kirby Moore assisted with editing.

It can be hard to set and work on goals while grieving. After all, you’re going through a difficult time and might have uncertainty in the future. However, creating healthy goals during this time is crucial for moving forward.

It can help you stay focused and provide you with a sense of purpose. Here are some tips from Meditation Informs Healing Facilitation to keep in mind when setting and working on your goals.

Where to Begin

When it comes to working with grief, first of all, be gentle. There are many ways that grief manifests. There is no “one way” to grieve. So give yourself some time and space and allow stuff to move. According to the Kubler-Ross model of grieving, there are 5 stages – denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. Don’t let anyone else tell you how long you need to grieve – trust your heart. Then you may want to keep the following in mind as well.

It can be hard to know where to start when it comes to your goals. The first step is to identify what you want to achieve. Is there a goal you’ve been wanting to reach for a while now? Do you want to make some changes in your life?

Maybe you want to take up a new hobby or learn something new. This will help you set a goal that’s specific and measurable, which will give you a sense of accomplishment when it’s achieved. Try incorporating some of the ideas discussed below, or use your own goal to get started.

Get Plenty of Rest

It’s important to get plenty of rest as it is, but even more so when you’re grieving. You need mental focus and physical energy, both of which proper sleep provides. Try implementing a physical fitness routine each day of the week.

This will help you sleep soundly at night, giving you sufficient energy for the next day. Stick with it, and you will surely enjoy the many benefits that exercise provides.

Make Time for You

Grief is a process that takes time. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this. You will need to set aside some time for yourself to process your grief, while still taking care of your other responsibilities.

Setting aside time for yourself can be achieved through schedule changes, taking breaks during the day, or scheduling activities with friends and family. Do your best not to neglect your own health and wellbeing.

It’s easy to forget about your own needs when you’re grieving. But you are important, too. By making time for your needs, you can be sure to better process and deal with grief.

Stay Connected

If you’ve experienced a loss, the most important thing you can do is to connect with others. Even if you don’t feel like talking or reaching out, it’s important to remember that there will be many people who want to help and be there for you.

Acknowledge that your feelings are difficult and that while it may not seem like it right now, life does go on. It is possible to move on and live life while still honoring the person who has passed away.

Start Your Own Company

When you lose someone you love, chances are you may feel lost at sea. Focusing on something you’re passionate about can help you stay the course, even when the grieving process suggests otherwise. For example, being your boss brings you a sense of accomplishment and great joy. Many people find that owning a business brings them joy and helps them refocus as they work through their feelings and emotions.

However, jumping blindly into business is a bad idea — you have to put together a plan and select a structure, among other things. Consider forming an LLC if you are interested in running your own business. An LLC has many benefits, including the possibility of saving money on startup costs. An LLC in Virginia is more tax-efficient compared to other business types. Instead of paying high fees for a lawyer to set up your LLC, consider LLC formation services.

Remember to take this business at your own pace. Again, rushing anything while grieving is a bad idea; make sure you’re positive this is something you want to pursue, and then take it step by step.

When you’re suffering from grief, setting healthy goals can often seem impossible. However, it’s important to find ways to occupy your mind as you work through this difficult period. Whatever you choose, be mindful and purposeful about it. Make healthy choices, follow previously unexplored passions, and stay in touch with family and friends — it may take some time, but you’ll soon find your way forward.