7 Tips to get through this season with ease.

Bonus: Below, Arianne explains in a video how to practice staying calm during anxiety. 🤷🏽‍♀️

Welp, we’re here people!

Today is what, September the 9th, and by 11am this morning, I have heard the word “hurricane” four times. From a person who has not had the best experiences with hurricanes in the past as a single mother, this weather is a bit ghetto for me. I naturally noticed my body get a bit tense as I think about all that I have going on: Upcoming travel plans, the kiddos are starting to cough bit, and I have been doing so good budgeting and being all responsible and all. Please leave my finances alone.

I’m like really, you wanna come right now Mr. or Ms. whatever your hurricane name might be. I am very much giving Inside Out 2 disgust!

But let’s get real. I’m actually not panicking this time around, and I don’t want you to either.

We’re in the good old New Orleans area, and we’re tired of going into panic mode with heightened anxiety and triggered PTSD. The first thing I did before leaving the house this morning was send an update to my family with potential last-minute travel changes: “Hey parents, I’m keeping an eye on this weather/'hurricane.' I may not be able to make it, but I’ll keep you posted." I then texted my sister Toya in Georgia: “Hey sissy, me and your two little people might be pulling up on. IDK, but I’ll keep you posted.” (with the shrugged shoulders emoji).

I created a "Think List" with tips to get through the unknown this year, and I want to share it with you all. I hope it helps.

Okay Let’s think.

Pray!
Grab your bible honey. Remember, we’re doing it differently this year. Philippians 4: 6-8 You’re welcome.
Get still.
With your pen and paper, use your brain to simply think, then make notes.
Update family.
Tell them the truth, even if it’s “I’m not sure just yet.” Let them know your thoughts and ask them what they think.
Schedule Bank Transfers.
If needed, check your accounts and schedule your transfers. This is no reason to go over your budget… if you have one lol.
Fill up time
In case you’re late in the game like me and there are lines at the gas stations already, try to do this while the kids are at school or away to prevent overstimulation, IYKYK. Put on your feel-good music, pull up YouTube, listen to motivational speeches, or play that audiobook you need to finish anyway. Relax and be patient during the wait. Hope you caught that! There’s so much you can do while waiting in that gas line, but don’t forget to be intentional by saying in real-time, “I am actually experiencing peace during this season.”
Order necessary items.
Avoid the stores if you can. Target and Walmart delivery or pick up is my bestie, as well as Amazon prime same day or next day delivery if need be. Also, if you’re driving out of town, just go to the store to do your shopping then.
Keep talking, but keep the panic out of it.
There are so many things you do to stay calm and be efficient in this season. Also, remember, it may be much of nothing. There can be information overload, but there are also resources that we really need to know about. Either way, chill. God got us!