The news of COVID-19 seemed like a ton of bricks falling down all at the same time. Next thing you know, businesses, restaurants, and even schools closed down “until further notice” and we are quarantined at home.
Under the stay-at-home orders and social distancing, you’re likely to feel bored, anxious, or lost. These feelings are never pleasant. Add to that uncertainty around how long we are going to be this way.
We’re all spending more time on social media these days, so you’ve become aware of the two types of groups: Those who are taking this opportunity to rest, and those who are on their hustle.
It may be the first time, in a long time, that certain people have had time to just chill. Their lives are all about work and barely having time to breathe. They can now take a load off and practice some well-deserved self-care.
The other group is on their grind, using this time to push forward that side hustle idea, finish a book, or create content for those wanting to learn something new. The uncertainty, coupled with isolation, can be a catalyst for some to start thinking differently about what’s next.
The reality is that neither one of these groups is wrong. Whichever path you find yourself on is okay. No need to shame one another for how we decide to navigate through this journey. What’s more important is how we help each other.
We are in unprecedented times with disruptions to our daily lives. Our natural response is anxiety and stress. Our normal ways of de-stressing – working out at the gym, going to sports events, or meeting up with friends - aren’t available to us right now.
It’s normal to feel uncertain and disheveled; each person will handle those feelings differently. No one knows how long this pandemic will last, or how long it will be before we can resume our regular routines. Here are three ways to make this quarantine life better:
Accept Negative Emotions
What we do have control of during this crisis is how we feel. It’s important to acknowledge all the negative feelings, because they are valid. Instead of trying to push them away, accept them. This is where we look inside with curiosity and determine how we need to respond – with rest or hustle.
Create Your New Normal
During times like these, people often do what they can to escape from reality. Instead, we can establish structure and predictability in our lives, while also being adaptable. The most helpful routines are ones that enhance the need for competence and relatedness. There may be some things you’ve been meaning to do but haven’t had time - learning to play guitar, painting or rearranging your bedroom, or trying new recipes.
Reinvent Self-Care
The ways in which we take care of our mental and physical health have been swept from under us, but it doesn’t mean we have to give up on them entirely. Schedule your self-care each day. It could be running or walking outside, using apps for home exercise or FaceTiming your family and friends.
It will help to realize that these trying times present opportunities to learn more about yourself and to grow in whichever way you choose. Take care.