We are heavy into the second wave of COVID-19. For many of us including myself, anxiety is high. The numbers are rising, it seems as though day by day we have more bad news, and Toronto is constantly adding new restrictions. From the stressors of the pandemic, everyday struggles and balancing online school, it can be all too much. I’m finding myself becoming very overwhelmed, very quickly. Trying to be productive but not getting anything done, and wanting to take time for myself but feeling guilty if I do because of my lack of productivity.
Here are a few tips to keep you calm, cool and collected as we move through wave number two.
- Time Block Your Day
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This might not be the method for everyone. But making a little list of to-do’s for the day, and putting in a time frame for these tasks can really help you manage everything you need to get done, including some self-care time. The times don’t need to be super strict, but it’s helpful to give you a general idea of when you want to get things done. If you’re like me, you love crossing things off a list. So add little things like “make your bed” to the list, there is something to cross off already! Add little tasks that are realistic, rather than giving yourself higher expectations to get things done. If you don’t finish, add the remaining tasks to the next day. This gives the day some structure which is nice since we’ve really been reliving the same day for months now.
- SELF-CARE, SELF-CARE, SELF-CARE
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There is always so much talk about “self-care”. But truly, during times like this when it is easy to put ourselves on the back burner, prioritizing self-care is important. Self-care does not need to mean doing an at-home facial. Self-care is anything that brings you joy or relaxation. Something away from your work. It can be going for a walk, some kind of movement, reading a book, baking or cooking a nice meal for yourself, or just meditating and taking those extra few minutes to check in with yourself, and acknowledge your feelings. They are all valid. If you are used to doing work until the second you fall asleep, maybe block out an extra hour at the end of your day to wind down before bed. I guarantee you will feel much more rested the next day, and possibly perform better.
- Turn off COVID news
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I know this can be hard for many of us, myself included. Every day at the same time I check the news to see the new case reports of that day. It’s easy to be glued to the news and want to constantly know what’s going on, but this can really increase our anxiety, and truthfully, knowing the numbers doesn’t mean anything. We are aware of what’s going on and the restrictions, so let’s just keep it at that.
- Talk to someone
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No, this does not mean a therapist, although if you have one, kudos to you. You can talk to anyone! The pandemic is very isolating for everyone. If you live away from your friends or family or are just nervous to see people during this time, make sure you call them! A simple phone or FaceTime call can boost your mood so much. It’s so important to stay in contact with the people we care about most, especially now! They will benefit from your call just as much as you will.
- Find your calling
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Now is a GREAT time to pick up some new hobbies! It doesn’t need to be crazy. But maybe you can discover something you enjoy doing that you’re good at. Whether it’s drawing or painting, having fun in the kitchen or putting outfits together in your own room. Many people have started little side-hustles during this time as a hobby, a way to distract them from their daily schedules. If you’ve been wanting to start something or pick up a new hobby, this is your sign. If reading this brings something to mind, GO FOR IT!
Hopefully one of these tips will help you realize that with all the unknown and negativity in the world, we can really keep ourselves sane by doing things, for ourselves. It will make all the difference in the world.
Stay safe!