Are you in limbo? You don’t need to stay there.

Many people are in limbo these days. You may be in limbo because you are just starting to build your family and are unsure of which program to choose, or you may be thinking about whether or not to take break from treatment, or unsure how to choose a donor, or if you want to use a donor at all right now.

All of these decisions can be exacerbated by the limbo that most of us feel in the world right now. There has been so much pain and suffering, and now many people are beginning to feel a bit better. In many places, the weather is nice so there is time to enjoy the outdoors, some restaurants (with outdoor seating) are opening and some people are even getting new jobs. And yet, the world is uncertain. We hear about places in our own country where the loosening of restrictions has caused an overconfidence and lack of caution, and unfortunately, an uptick in COVID cases.

What do we do with this information? Do we go to that restaurant, or see that friend or family member that we miss so dearly? Do we take a few days away, or feel comfortable enough to use public restrooms? We have just come from months of isolation and despair and a little relief would be so nice. But do we risk it, and if so how much?

Many people have concluded what is and is not comfortable for them and their families, but that is not the end of the story. This stress can drain the positivity, enthusiasm and energy you need to push through with your family building goals. When you are sick of making decisions, frustrated by the absence of everyday joy and longing to hug your best friend, it can be a struggle to summon the resources that you need to learn about family building, to move ahead with important appointments, and take action on plans and procedures to reach your goals.

In research conducted by Sean Achor, he found that three minutes of negative news in the morning increases your chances of having a bad day by twenty-seven percent… as reported six to eight hours later! That’s right, bad news and pressure coming in from the outside can have a lasting effect on how you feel on the inside.

Getting the right information and support is key so you feel bolstered and don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Follow us on Instagram @thecenterforfamilybuilding for weekly information to help you reach your goals.

You can also try this little trick. The next time you are feeling like you are in limbo and too drained or stressed to take the next step, do three things each day to move yourself in the right direction. It doesn’t matter what they are. If you feel three is too many then start with one. But make sure it happens each day.

This does not include scrolling through social media posts or checking your emails – but three things, no matter how small that will advance one of your goals. Do you want to think about next steps in treatment? Get an appointment on the calendar with your doctor. Do you want to develop a narrative for your child? Buy some books and start discussing ideas with your partner. Do you and your partner need to make a decision, but are not on the same page? Set up an appointment with a counselor who can help. Do you need to get healthier? Stand up more frequently during the day, go to bed earlier, eliminate one negative food. Making a few calls, deciding to make a few lifestyle changes or even buying a new calendar can help your mindset and demonstrate to your brain that you are a doer. You are ready for a change!

And, as always, reach out to us with any questions you may have. Were always happy to hear from you. It’s our aim to make your journey easier.

Warmly,
Lisa