Carmen Jones

Let's face it, life is full of things we don't want to do: paying bills, trips to the doctor/dentist, getting up early for work, trying to make new connections and friends. And since turning 30, I figured it was time that I just 'man up' and get to it. But adulting can be incredibly overwhelming sometimes. Dealing with anxiety is one thing, but dealing with anxiety as an adult is a whole different ball game. Some things that help me cope are exercise, podcasts, cooking and making sure that I do something creative every day. I feel that working out is necessary, especially at this stage in my life when I want to look and feel good, but exercise is so great for anxiety. It helps your mind, and body, decompress and let go of daily struggles. Secondly, while at work, I regularly listen to podcasts. Hearing people, sometimes very successful people, talk about how they have or are currently dealing with some mental challenges reminds me that I'm not alone and if they can get through it, so can I. Anxiety for me can tend to build up and I'll often find myself rushing through things, especially things I don't necessarily want to be doing, which can leave me feeling very flustered. Cooking and baking allow me to slow down. And it's a win, win because at the end of it all, I'm not only calmer, but I have something delicious to eat! And lastly, it is absolutely vital that all creatives do something well, creative, every. single. day. Adulting can leave you feeling very drained so, paint a picture. Take some photos. Write in your journal. All of these are great outlets that remind you as to why you are here, to live, not just survive, and help relieve some of the worrying that may go through your head throughout the day. Adult anxiety can be tough, but there are so many things that we can do to make living our lives a little easier to help us make it through!