Do you ever find yourself at a loss for motivation to get out of bed and start your day? Or following a routine and staying productive when you’re locked indoors? Life during a global pandemic (one that none of us ever expected, to say the least), can be extremely difficult.
It can be daunting to tackle hectic schedules that consist of school, work, maintaining relationships and a social life, especially within the proximity of your home. Here are 9 quick tips for you to balance your routine while putting yourself first!
- Time-blocking your day.
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By taking a couple of minutes before bed each day to block out the hours of the next day with a task, you will be more motivated to complete these tasks and cross out each one on the list. This is one of my personal favourites because it provides you with certainty for your day.
- Organizing your workspace like you would at work or school.
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Creating an organized workspace with your favourite décor will create an inviting environment that will entice you to work. Try thrift shopping or going on a little hunt through your home for cute accessories to add on your desk (trust me, we all have something lying around the house that will make the space feel just right!). Succulents are a great addition to your workspace—they bring positive energy and an aesthetic appeal.
- Don’t stay in pyjamas all day!
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Do your makeup and wear your favourite outfits before starting your “work hours”! If you look good, you will feel good, and then you will work even better! Although lounging in pyjamas can be comfy, it tends to make us sluggish overtime. If you’re up to it, do some online shopping and try some new looks!
- Get some exercise.
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This one is very important! With being bound indoors 24/7, there is limited opportunity to be physically active. That is why it is crucial to get some fresh air, whether that is going on safe walks around the block or cranking open a window while you do some morning stretches. Try out new YouTube workout programs, such as Chloe Ting’s channel! She offers a wide variety of options to target your exercise goals for free! Physical activity is proven to increase serotonin levels, reduce stress, and improve mood, so get up and get moving!
- Pursue your hobbies.
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Schedule time to do the things you love! Whether it is having an at-home spa day, reading your favourite book, doing arts and crafts, listening to some up-beat music, or just taking an energizing nap, do something that fuels you to take on the day. Pursuing your hobbies regularly gives you something to look forward to.
- Kick back and relax.
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At the end of a long, debilitating day, it is crucial that we unwind and relax. What better way to do this than to reward yourself with some of your favourite Netflix shows? Grab some popcorn, a fluffy blanket, and dim your lights. You’ve worked hard and you deserve it!
- Spend time with your family and friends.
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To avoid the burnout from your workload and isolation, spend some time with your family and loved ones. Even though this may not be possible to do in person due to COVID-19, take advantage of social media and interactive platforms such as FaceTime, Skype, and WhatsApp. Sharing your feelings with loved ones is one of the best ways to relieve anxiety, stress, and get some good company as well!
- Journaling your day and reflecting on your feelings.
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It is completely okay to feel down sometimes. After all, being in a pandemic and still trying to live a normal life isn’t easy- and we applaud you for all that you are doing, even if you feel it isn’t enough! Spend some time to reflect on your feelings and journal at night to remind yourself how far you’ve come. Remember that writing things out can help alleviate stress and remedy your worries!
- Daily affirmations.
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Kickstart your day with a daily affirmation for positive energy to propel you towards your goals. If you tell yourself you’re worth it, no obstacle can take you down! Look up examples of daily affirmations on the internet; the list is neverending!
We know these times are difficult and unpredictable, but taking care of ourselves will help us to see the light at the end of the tunnel. With these tips, you can remember to put yourself first so that you will emerge stronger.
What are some of your favourite takeaways from this list? What are some things you do to practice self-care?