Just when we think we’ve seen it all by 2020, COVID-19 is here to show us otherwise. While many of us starting self-quarantining last week, NJ state government has stepped in and mandated it as of today – and I have a feeling things are only going to get more stringent going forward.
I generally consider myself an introvert, but this situation has taught me that I only enjoy being one on my own terms. Not when I’m forced to be alone. Greg and his roommate, Dan, are the only people I’ve seen in the last week, and I’m definitely feeling the lack of human interaction at this point.
My emotions have been all over the place, as I’m sure a lot of yours have been. I was originally one of the people who thought everyone was being a bit dramatic about everything – but then things rapidly (and scarily) advanced. The most frightening part of this all is that we’ve never experienced anything like this before. We don’t know what to expect – and as a result, we feel a serious lack of control.
To add to this, quite literally every platform possible is providing updates about either the rate of spread or number of deaths multiple times a day. It’s a lot, and I’m starting to feel suffocated. I don’t know about you all, but I had a super hard time focusing “at work” this entire week. Things just feel so… off.
That being said, I am so incredibly fortunate to work in an industry that can continue to stay in business throughout this chaos. Another thing weighing very heavily on me is the financial impact this epidemic has had/is going to have on the lives of those around us – especially those who are now out of work. This situation is infiltrating every aspect of our lives at this point.
While I’m extremely grateful to be able to work from home, I’ve realized the lack of work/life separation I once had before is affecting me more than I expected. The confines of your apartment get quite small when you’re staying in one room for 8+ hours a day, only to migrate to another one for the remaining hours. It’s monotonous, and I feel very uninspired. Here are some tips for bringing some separation back into your routine:
1) Shower and get ready for your day.
I saw a tweet that said something along the lines of “getting put back into my depression routine against my will”, and it was SPOT. ON. It’s really easy to roll out of bed at the last minute to “go to work”, while looking and feeling like a slob the rest of your day (speaking from firsthand experience, here). The days I shower and do my makeup, I feel a lot more awake and energized. The days I haven’t, I’ve felt significantly more depressed. Subconsciously, our getting ready routine is our indicator that it’s time to begin our day, so try and keep this a part of your morning.
2. Keep up with your chores.
Now that you’re home 24/7, you’re creating more dishes and more of a mess in general. Don’t let that get you in the habit of leaving it for the next day. Since we are in this space indefinitely at this point, make a point to make it an environment that you are comfortable in – not one that makes you feel stressed or unproductive. Doing dishes, wiping counters, and putting things away are small accomplishments that will help keep your motivation up – especially if you make a note to internally praise yourself for these successes.
3. Go on walks during your “lunch break”.
I’m really guilty of working through lunch, but that is simply not an option at this point. Without my daily walk to the Path, I NEED to move in some capacity, or I feel like I am going to lose my mind. Taking a step outside and getting some fresh air is really vital to your well-being, especially in these times. If you’re worried about social distancing, pick areas that aren’t super crowded or cross the street when you find yourself getting too close to others.
4. Use the video option for work calls.
I know, I know. The introverts reading this are cringing right now, but I was truly shocked by how refreshing it was to see my coworkers’ faces on Zoom. You feel less alone, and you’re able to see reactions in real time, which is essential for communication. When all communication is done via message/text/email, it’s really easy to feel disconnected and take away incorrect meaning from things that are said.
5. Organize one new thing every day.
How many of us have been wanting to get organized but say we never have the time? Well, here’s your moment! Take a moment to organize one area/section/thing a day (big or small). You will not only feel productive, but you’ll gain that important sense of accomplishment that you may be lacking during these times. By only choosing one thing, you’re keeping your expectations manageable, which will result in the habit continuing over time. I’m genuinely looking forward to how organized my apartment is going to be after coming out of this.
6. Use this as an opportunity to start a new workout routine.
So many brands are taking advantage of this newfound downtime by offering free trials/virtual sessions (Peloton, CorePower Yoga, and Planet Fitness to name a few). My #1 excuse has always been not having enough time, so with 2 hours back in my day (thanks to commuting being on pause), I have no excuse anymore. Using this time to build habits each day will help us get back to a steady routine once things return to “normal”.
7. Create a designated workspace.
This was actually a huge thing that was affecting my productivity. I started out on my couch, with a table in front of me as a desk – this lasted about 2 days until my back felt like it was going to collapse on me. I wanted to stay in the living room, because the lighting is brightest there, but I was also having an issue working where I usually enjoy my time. I took a moment to figure out a situation that worked for me – using our breakfast bar as a desk and bringing in my desk chair from my room. It immediately improved how I was feeling/working! This helps keep that separation between your work and personal life.
8. Limit media intake.
I know this one is extremely difficult, given we are now relying on our phones for pretty much all forms of socialization. This is one I need to work on too, because I’m feeling very drained every day after reading what’s either on my feed or being sent to me via text. Use this time to do things that don’t involve live media updates, such as starting a new show or reading a new book. I use an app called Libby that allows you to download books for free if you have a library card – I HIGHLY recommend!
9. Look at the positives coming out of this situation.
I am aware this is tough right now, but I promise the positives exist. For me, it’s getting 2 hours back in my day to care for myself (either working out, cooking, walking, reading, meditating) and taking intentional time to connect with those who mean the most to me. This is also a very important lesson in privilege and realizing the importance of our individual role in a larger community.
10. Schedule time with friends.
Earlier this week, my friend Megan asked our group chat if we could schedule a video call, to have something to look forward to in the week. I’m so glad she did! While we cannot physically be around each other, we have the next closest thing: video chat. It’s important to keep social events in your schedule, especially if you’re living alone in this situation.
This has been what has personally helped me so far. Of course, we are all different people – so some things may work for you, and some may not. Just know that you’re not alone in whatever you’re feeling, and being scared of the unknown is perfectly normal and expected.
Anything I didn’t mention that has worked for you? Feel free to drop any suggestions in the comments.
I hope you’re all staying safe and healthy. Hang in there!
Truly,
Taylor