My new normal consists of working from home using a ping pong table as a desk in my bedroom. Between sleeping and working, I’m spending 16-18 hours a day in my bedroom. I’ve realized that I’ve taken restaurants and bars for granted all these years. Social outings are currently a thing of the past, and I wish I enjoyed them more while I had the chance. I only leave my apartment if I need to go to the store or to take a walk.
This new style of living has been bizarre, to say the least. In these times of uncertainty and change, I’m adapting as best I can and soaking up valuable lessons along the way. Here’s what I’ve learned after one week of social distancing during the COVID-19 outbreak:
Every day is different. You don’t have to feel a certain way.
I would be lying if I said some days last week weren’t harder than others. Every day I felt different and responded to my surroundings and thoughts differently. When walking through uncertain times, it’s important to remember that there are no rules around how you’re supposed to feel. There are no “right” feelings right now. Give yourself grace and sit with your feelings.
Gratitude is powerful.
I have a gratitude journal and write down at least three things that I’m grateful for every day. I’m committed to my gratitude practice now more than ever. My gratitude lists have grown over the last week, and every day I find more to be grateful for. I’m constantly seeking moments of joy and keep finding them. You can find them too.
We can embrace the opportunity to slow down.
With the reduced pace of our day-to-day lives, we can choose to live more intentionally. Our commitments and obligations haven’t disappeared entirely, but the rush to get from one place to the next has. Appreciate this slower season, and enjoy the small moments often overlooked when we’re always in a hurry. Choose to savor your first sip of coffee in the morning.
There is no better time to tell your loved ones how much you appreciate them.
We are all relying on our support systems to help us navigate these uncertain times. Often, we think we’re showing our appreciation to others, but sometimes in the day-to-day hustle, we don’t relay the message enough. Tell the people in your lives how much you love and appreciate them.