Episode 6: Ways to Cope When There Is So Much Going On Right Now

Hi travel besties and welcome to another episode of the Just Book It Podcast. This episode isn’t going to be your typical travel conversation, but instead a way to talk about methods to cope with everything going on right now. As I reflect from not only last year but in 2020 as well, it almost seems as though so much has been happening ever since the first wave of covid. I have attached a comprehensive list of some significant events that have affected the lives of many. I haven’t included everything, so if you are curious about other events, please check out the links right here. Just to start out, if any of you guys have been deeply affected by any events in the past two years, I am so so so sorry and cannot imagine the pain you are going through. My heart goes out to you all and I wish I could give everyone a big hug. 

I was particularly motivated to create this podcast with the recent events between Ukraine and Russia. It has been nothing short of devastating to read about, watch, and listen to. I’ve cried, in fact, cried a lot about this because these are innocent lives and a peaceful country that wants nothing to with war. It’s disappointing to see people continue to go about their everyday lives; posting, promoting their brands, experiences, etc when we have a huge global issue going on that affects E V E R Y O N E. 

Since the Ukraine is not a part of NATO (an agreement the previous president of Ukraine had with Putin that wouldn’t hinder the relationship with Russia),  “We do not have any plans [to deploy] NATO troops to Ukraine,” Stoltenberg said at a press briefing on Feb. 24. “We have already increased and we are increasing the presence of NATO troops in the eastern part of the alliance on NATO territory.” Source

Ways to Cope When There is So Much Going On Right Now

Since these are of course unprecedented times, it’s time for us to unite and help each other. That is why I decided to create this podcast on methods that you can incorporate to cope with everything going on right now because you are N O T  A L O N E, I promise you. Ready to get into it, let’s do this. 

1. Check In On Loved Ones: We take this one for granted because sometimes we get caught up with our lives, but reach out to your loved ones and say that you appreciate them and love them. We need to show support to our families and even reach out to individuals you know in particular that are struggling and personally affected. Do me a favor and make sure you give your family member, friend, anyone you love a call or text today. – xoxo, Vee

2. Donate: If you’re feeling like I am right now, helpless and unsure of how to make an impact and help the people of Ukraine, giving back is one of the most effective ways. There are many legit organizations that you can donate to at the link here. My grandma has a close friend whose family is currently in Ukraine so if you don’t feel comfortable donating to those accounts, you can Venmo me, and I’ll send it over to my grandma who will send it over to her friend. 

3. Spread the Word: We need to keep the conversation going and continue to talk about ways to support Ukraine. It seems like a small task, but you never know who you might be informing and it might be the reason they consider donating. 

4. Get off Social Media: As much as it is important to spread the word if it’s too upsetting to see the posts about it all and it’s flooding your page, feel free to take a break. Try deleting the app or even setting time restraints so that you can limit the time on social media.

5. Write Letters to Congress: If you have a free moment to draft a letter and send it to members of Congress in the United States and elected officials about supporting Ukraine and standing in solidarity, it would be very much appreciated. Check out this link for a sample letter to get inspiration!

6. Do Things That Give You Peace of Mind: Whether you enjoy reading, working out, writing, dancing, etc, focus on those for a bit to give yourself peace of mind. I know it seems odd to not be focused on helping, but we are trying to do the best that we can and continue to keep them in our wishes and prayers. If you are still having trouble, ask yourself, “What keeps you going?”. Some things that I love to do are blogging, of course, dancing, doing a tarot card reading, yoga, solving sudoku puzzles, watching a tv show with my friend, and more! Have I given you any useful suggestions? Am I missing anything? Feel free to comment on things you are doing in order to cope and we can all work together. 

Well, that concludes this episode. Be sure to check out my recent Instagram post and the link in my Instagram bio or right here in the show notes to figure out how you can do your part! Again, my prayers and wishes go out to the families that are directly impacted and god only knows what is going on in your head. I have personally sent donations and am trying to continue to convince others to do so as well so that Ukrainians have the support that they need during these tough times.