How to Stay Positive During the Pandemic

It has been over a year since the emergence of COVID-19. On January 23rd 2020, China initiated the first series of lockdowns in the world to help mitigate the spread. Soon after the rest of world implemented social distancing mandates and lockdowns as well. Even though we are slowly adapting to our current situation, it had left us feeling insecure and hopeless at times. In order to help keep you positive during these challenging times, here are 7 ways to stay positive during the pandemic.

Go outdoors

Get out of the house and take a walk around your neighborhood or in a nearby park, if you are allowed. You can even invite a friend, adhering to social distancing rules, and catch up. Don’t confine yourself to the same four walls all day if you do not have too. Go take in some sunlight and fresh air, both are wonderful ways to boost your mood.

Be self-compassionate

Stop being so hard on yourself. We are living through a difficult period. No one expects you to adapt quickly, start an online business or be super productive during your time at home. I know that social media can make you feel like you are not grasping the opportunity that the lockdown as brought to tackle projects or become a better you but simply making it through another day is enough. Give yourself some grace and stop pressuring yourself. You have your own path and taking care of your mental health is more important than trying to look like you have your sh*t together.

Focus on what you can control

This pandemic has left us reeling with the lack of control over our movements and interactions. Instead of focusing on what we have lost, consider what you can do. You can still interact and have meet ups with friends and family but you have to be more creative and cautious. Remember that you are responsible for each others safety.

You can change your mindset and take this time as an opportunity for self-care and to express gratitude for what you have. Tell the people you love how much you mean to them and take care of your mind, body and spirit.

You can still foster deep and meaningful connections with others. Decide how you want to show up for the people in your life. Focus on your reactions to events and the actions you take because of it. Establish healthy boundaries in your relationship and take the time to learn about yourself.

Adopt a pet

If you are alone at home, adopting a pet can provide you with company and someone to cuddle. If you reside with others, a pet can provide the same companionship and cuddles and give your kids a new way to have fun.

Try a new hobby or reconnect with an old one

Life can get pretty busy as we balance our work and home life. Sometimes that means letting go of our passion projects or hobbies. Now that free time has been forced upon us, take advantage of that to get back in touch with your hobbies or try something new.

Consider looking back at childhood activities you enjoyed doing just for the fun of it. Rekindle those flames and see what becomes of it. You might be inspired to make that a part of your work or start a side hustle. However, remember the point is to have fun.

Create and follow a self-care calendar

This great idea is inspired by an artist I follow. She created a month long calendar of self-care practices to do each day. What a wonderful way to take care of yourself and do something different everyday. I know it can get boring being stuck at home with no where to go. Create your own calendar and spend some of that time to heal and rejuvenate your mind and body and connect with your inner world.

Connect with your loved ones

It can get depressing and lonely without the physical connection we are accustomed to receiving daily. This is something that we took for granted until COVID-19 showed us the value of touch. Being able to hold someone’s hand, hug or kiss without fear has been taken from us. It’s great that we have technology to facilitate it but it is not the same as being with someone face to face.

However, we have to work within the boundaries of our current situation. Make sure to schedule daily check-ins with your family and close friends to see how they are holding up. Reach out and set up a video call once a week so that you can see their faces and expressions. Leave a nice voice note that they can listen to later or send a digital letter telling them how much you appreciate and value their friendship.

Be creative with technology and have virtual game dates, a sip and paint session or even exercise together. It’s a nice way to connect and get in some self-care practices. Maybe read to each other or watch the same movie while on a video call as well.

Thank you for reading. Do you have tips on how to stay positive during this pandemic and while social distancing?

Love generously, Inspire daily, Learn constantly.

AmethystAP