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Whether you agree with it or not, many parts of the country are in the midst of reverting to lockdowns or some form of major restrictions considering the pandemic. For many, this brings back terrifying memories dating back to early spring when they were sheltered-in-place for an undisclosed period. But this time is different because we have been here before and are better prepared. To those who need a boost, here are some ways to make the best (or most tolerable) of the coming months.
GET ORGANIZED
It is easy to get comfortable waking up and winging it. But are you really being productive or busy? If you chose the latter, time is being wasted. To make the best of the hours ahead it is critical to developing a plan. Set your goals wisely based on your work style. Personally, it is best for me to knock out the most challenging task in the morning. As a morning person, popping out of bed and hammering out work is better for me. For the night owls, you may wish to nibble at the easier tasks earlier and save the best (or worst, depending on how you see it) for last. There’s no correct pattern – what is most important is to map out a plan. It will reduce your stress level and put you in a better position to take hold of the day.
GET DRESSED
Remember when wearing a dress shirt and maybe a blazer while sporting comfy sweatpants was a thing? I am sure that continues for the remote workers but hear me out. The way you dress can have an impact on how you feel. Think about the pre-pandemic flow of things. You showered, put on nice threads, ate breakfast, and hit the road ready to take on whatever the day would throw at you. If at least for a couple of days, try normalizing your life by continuing certain patterns (including organization) and getting dressed to work on your couch.
EAT WELL
Exercising will be more challenging than ever as more states look to close fitness centers until further notice. And depending on your space, you may not be motivated to get the workout you need. If you find this to be the case, prioritize in eating as well as you can. At the very least, if you are limited to walking or light exercise, you can sleep well knowing you did not trash your body on donuts all day.
MEDITATE
A good friend said if there is one thing this pandemic has taught us; it is to slow down. I could not agree more. Staying connected and busy can get the best of anyone without them knowing and lead to burnout. A simple solution is meditation. This could be at your desk, in your bed, or your favorite reading nook. Even if you only have five minutes to spare, take those minutes to disconnect, breathe, and separate yourself from the world. Meditation not easy and admittedly I stumble to remain still at times. But like any skill it takes practice. There are many apps you can download or YouTube channels to subscribe for teachable ways to meditate. The more you do it easier it will be and lead to greater results.
STAY CONNECTED
Let me be clear, I’m referring to video chat and not social media. This pandemic has required us to adapt to a new way of working, learning, and socializing. One of them being by video chat. There are many ways to get creative with this, whether it is by hosting virtual happy hours, catching up with friends and family, or a hybrid of both. The point is that humans are social beings not meant to be isolated so do not torture yourself. Reach out to someone and often. Just because you may not be with them physically does not mean all hope is lost.
BONUS – GET BETTER!
I’m going to be very transparent with you for a moment, so hang tight! The world was forced to upend their lives due to a global pandemic that has not seen the likes in over a century. People died. Extreme measures were taken to keep people safe. People died. Jobs were lost. People died. Mental health issues rose at alarming rates. Did I mention that people died?
If any of this makes sense to you, understand there is no waiting to get back to ‘normal’ or whatever that may be. Really think about what you experienced and how to grow from it, not merely wait for your office to reopen or travel restrictions to be lifted. Rather, reflect on what this has taught you how better positioned you are for adversity. And while on the subject, do not be afraid to take risks! Make calculated decisions and do not waste your time.
This may sound a bit disconcerting, but it is the hard truth. You got this.
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Photo: Shutterstock
