The world we are living in is a completely unprecedented, unexpected era that has shifted our comprehension of what it means to live… as opposed to simply being alive. In what seemed like the blink of an eye, everything we knew to be normal was ripped away, leaving us dazed, scared and most of all, lost. For months, life continued to pass us by with no change or excitement; simply isolation. The never-changing routine we have all become accustomed to has resulted in our ‘new normal’, and unfortunately for many, this does not seem like it will be changing any time soon.
Despite the current hardships, this situation is not as hopeless as it may seem. There are things we can do each day to combat the constant boredom and unwelcomed negativity, while at the same time provide a sense of fulfillment for ourselves. Achieving motivation and self-satisfaction while in quarantine is not as difficult a task as it may seem. There are dozens of ways to keep yourself occupied and bring fun back into your home-centered life.
Having so much time to yourself can be an incredible opportunity to try new hobbies that you otherwise have not had the time for pre-COVID. Not only is there no outside judgement when you are in the early, clumsy stages of learning new things, but there is also enough time and resources online to gain momentum with your new-found hobby.
I’ve learned that this has been the best time to try that work out routine I’ve always wanted to try, teach myself guitar, finish that incredibly hard paint by numbers just to prove to myself that I can – whatever the obstacle, this version of me can accomplish it.
A great tip to get started on your new experimental journey is to preplan the skills you want to learn, picking a specific time in the day to carry out this activity, and even setting an alarm when it’s time to start. This will keep the idea fresh in your mind while at the same time keeping the vigor and excitement alive even in the worst of times.
Additionally, be sure to reward yourself after you finish your daily session. This positive feedback will help to reinforce the habit. and make you look forward to doing it more often. Cookie anyone?! LOL! Mastering a difficult hobby gives you something to look forward to once socialization is back in full swing. Can you imagine going to a piano bar for the first time post-COVID and surprising your friends with a ballad or showing off your new hot bod from your workouts in isolation?
Just as much as positive habits can help you stay sane and grow during this time, negative self-deprecating habits can do the opposite. While it’s alright to relax, sit back and treat yourself on occasion, it’s incredibly vital that long periods of procrastination or binge watching TV does not become an integral part of your daily routine. Too often people use long breaks from their typical busy and overwhelming lifestyles as an excuse to remove themselves from all obligations in their lives, including the hobbies or choices that are healthy.
Your body needs rest, yes, but too much has a direct correlation to a downward trend in mental health. Being active and engaging in actions that bring you joy have been scientifically proven to combat a repetitive and dull lifestyle. Lying in bed for days on end and depriving yourself of basic human interaction are sure fire ways to pull yourself away from the beautiful opportunities presented to yourself around every corner.
The most important thing is to stay alert, aware and in tune with the world around you. If you do so, newness and adventure will be everywhere! Seek out every challenge and meet them head on, especially now! There has never been a better time to center all of your focus inward and give yourself the love and exploration you deserve. Listen to your body and soul to determine what is calling you, and pursue it wholeheartedly. We believe in you!
