It’s okay to not be okay. It’s okay to take rest days. It’s okay to ask for help. It’s okay to feel unproductive sometimes. These are just a few of the things I wish I reminded myself of before the pandemic hit.
I don’t think I’m the only one who has struggled mentally and physically for the past year, and it’s important to normalize this conversation. I have been faced with challenges I’ve never dreamed of, my mental strength has been put to the test multiple times, and at moments it has been hard to see a light at the end of this dark tunnel we’ve been thrown into. It’s times when I’m faced with thoughts like these that I remind myself of important lessons and values to keep in mind, some I wish I knew a year ago.
“Haley, not every day is going to be a good day.” “You’re going to lack motivation in every aspect of your life including academics, friendships, relationships, family, exercise, and extracurriculars.” “You’re going to have those days where it’s extremely difficult to get out of bed and keep going.” “You’re even going to have thoughts so terrifying about the unknown you experience intense anxiety and panic.” “You are living through a pandemic and it’s okay.” “These feelings are normal and natural.”
With struggle comes persistence. Lack of everyday motivation brings newfound hobbies like cooking, coloring, reading, and writing. Extra sleep brings focus and energy. Most importantly, mental health challenges allow for growth.
“Haley, you will learn how to handle the most stressful situations with grace.” “You will understand what real fear feels like and how to overcome it.” “You will comprehend what it means to spend valuable time with family and friends and to never take it for granted.” “You will know who you can lean on in the hard moments and how to handle situations with those who may not be on the same page as you during these uncertain times.”
Overall, it will be okay. Even though it doesn’t seem like things will get better right now, they will. It takes trust, perseverance, love, and understanding to wake up every morning and know that there will be an end to this Covid madness. A time when we can gather safely and not worry about our loved ones. A time of happiness.
