⏰ Scrap your routine

Plus how to handle criticism and body image spirals.

View this email in your browser WEEKLY WIND DOWN 💪 Try this: If your routine is stressing you out, it might be time for a revamp. Think about which part of your routine you dread the most and see what it feels like when you switch things up. If you despise your ridiculously high-energy cycling class after work, for example, try walking around your neighborhood instead. You don't have to stick to a routine that's making you miserable. Think on this: What's something you've been avoiding lately? Why do you think you're struggling with this, and what might help you face it? Remember this: You can look on the bright side and still be sad. Read this: 13 Books by LGBTQ+ Authors That Feel Like Therapy ICYMI 👀 35 daily reflections for checking in with yourself Not sure if you should have kids? Read this How to prevent a body image spiral this summer There's a new relationship red flag to look out for How Selena Gomez deals with social anxiety TGI-EFF THAT THERAPY HACK 💡 Instead of spiraling over criticism, ask for clarification. When someone gives you criticism, it can feel like they're attacking your character or being harsh for no reason. But that could just be how you're interpreting it, and, chances are, they don't actually want to hurt you. It can be hard to assume the best in people, though, so getting to the bottom of someone's intentions can help you feel a bit better about the criticism. One way to do that is by asking for more info and clarifying their intentions, says psychologist Ellen Hendriksen, PhD.  Try it: Next time your boss gives you an exhaustive list of notes on your work presentation, pause before assuming they're attacking you as a person. To better understand where they're coming from, try asking them something like: "What makes you say that?" or "Can you tell me a little more about why you see it that way?" By asking them for clarification on why they have tons to say, it will likely become clear that it's not a critique of your character but simply an effort to make your work as good as they know it can be. Were you forwarded this email? Click here to subscribe for free. LET'S DISCUSS 💬 Digital Disconnect: When Your Online and IRL Personas Meet By Wondermind Many of us feel like we can be a little bit bolder and braver online than we can be in our everyday lives. But, for some people, that chasm can make it difficult to be genuine with the people closest to them. Born from this insight, leading tech company Lenovo developed a first-of-its-kind social experiment using smarter technology and AI to bring life to the entire online personas of two Gen Z individuals as lifelike avatars capable of having an unscripted, natural conversation.  The experiment facilitated impactful, heartfelt conversations between the participants, their family members, and the avatars with the goal of illustrating how smarter technology can support mental wellness. Why it's easier to be ourselves online The internet and social media have made it easier than ever to find like-minded folks and validating spaces. So, it's no wonder so many of us feel a greater sense of safety and connection online than we do in our everyday lives. According to research from Lenovo and SWNS, almost half (49%) of Gen Zs say it's easier to express themselves online than offline, but 60% wish they could have difficult conversations with family and loved ones in real life. "Online spaces have been a safety net for some people to freely be themselves and be open about who they are," says licensed therapist Minaa B., LMSW. "You're following people who are modeling for you what it looks like to exist in this identity without having to wear a mask." And that can be refreshing if you don't feel seen, heard, or accepted by the people in your immediate surroundings. For many, compartmentalizing in this way is a safe and satisfying way to feel supported. That said, it can also hold you back from experiencing more meaningful connections in your day-to-day life. "It's great to be able to find an online community where you can show up as you are and be your free self. But I often find these people are also wanting the same level of belonging and connection in real life," says Minaa B. "If you are not letting people know who you truly are, it's possible you're always going to feel exiled from certain communities because you're not allowing the community to embrace the fullness of who you are." Keep reading for 5 tips on how to show up as your full self offline.   READ MORE ON THAT NOTE Why Won't Social Media Let Us Talk About Our Feelings? How to Break Out of the Social Media Comparison Trap READ MORE READ MORE Why Won't Social Media Let Us Talk About Our Feelings? READ MORE How to Break Out of the Social Media Comparison Trap READ MORE 🎧 What we're listening to: Are you OK? NEED HELP NOW? These resources can help. SAMHSA National Helpline Suicide Prevention Lifeline The Trevor Project Trans Lifeline Advertise With Us PR Inquiries Want to unsubscribe? Click here to take a break.   Copyright © 2022 Wondermind. All rights reserved.   228 Park Avenue South, Suite 26327, New York, NY 10003   All products featured on Wondermind are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.   DISCLAIMER: THIS NEWSLETTER DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE The information contained in this newsletter is for informational purposes only. This newsletter is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment and before undertaking a new health care regimen, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read in this newsletter.