In times of difficulty, altering our mindset can be the difference between crumbling and thriving.
Now don’t get me wrong, self-isolation is definitely no picnic. But instead of thinking about all the things we are missing, why not step back and appreciate what we still have?
More downtime and a chance for self-reflection
During self-isolation I find myself doing things I never had enough time to do pre-pandemic. I’m getting back in touch with my creative side, enjoying music, going on longer walks, writing more, and listening to podcasts.
My attention span has actually increased during this time, and this is partly because I’m focussing more on things I’m interested in. Who would’ve thought this would happen in self-isolation during a global pandemic?
There’s some sweet irony to come from embracing downtime right now, instead of being afraid of it. When you are present in the moment, accept the situation, and (while there is a lot of hardship around), knowing things will be restored, you can begin feeling less down or afraid, and start feeling blessed and appreciative.
I definitely lost some motivation to study at the beginning of all this.
I was also wrapped up in all the latest coronavirus updates, that I let it consume my thoughts. After a while though, I began to think: instead of consuming myself with fear and panic fuelled information, I can utilise this time in self-isolation.
You can either stay in bed all day thinking ‘when will this end’, or you can actually channel your energy into something worthwhile and meaningful to you.
Meditation
If you’re spiritual and/or religious in some way, you can focus more time here. Or perhaps you’re more into motivation talks (there’s so many of these out there!).
Okay, maybe not that one.
You can even connect with other communities who share your faith, spirituality, values, or interests. This way, you can surround yourself (even if it’s virtually) with likeminded people. (That sure beats scrolling your feed and googling: ‘Do I have Coronavirus?’).
Bringing us back to basics, and appreciating the lil’ things.
Long walks? Sunset watching? Reading a book you cannot put down?
We are finding ourselves in a position that we never thought we would face, and now all of a sudden, some of us are even missing work!
Sure, our screen time has probably increased during self-isolation, but so can our appreciation for the little things in life.
Board games are making a comeback, family bike rides are the new black, and a lot of us are actually learning how to adapt to a world before we had such ease of access; before we took going to a cafe with a friend for granted.
Now more than ever, our humility can thrive, and we can appreciate what (and who) we may have previously taken for granted.
Nature is beautiful, isn’t it?
Autumn is such a beautiful season. So if you do feel stuck, why not use this time as a chance to turn a new leaf? Consider going on that walk while listening to a podcast!
Unity through creativity
Whether it’s painting, music, dancing, comedy, YouTube watching or even Instagram live videos, I have noticed a sense of unity.
When we think about it, celebrities who are usually out and super glammed up, are now in their homes, just like the rest of us in self-isolation:
Rolling straight outa bed, and into a Tute.
Zoom trollers and poor Wi-Fi connections aside, I feel like it’s a blessing we can utilise technology in a way that means our degrees won’t go on for longer than they need to (and all from the safety of our own homes).
Testing our ability to adapt to change
Some struggle a lot with this, but overcoming it starts with active acceptance. When we cannot change a tricky situation, adding stress only overcomplicates it. We need to channel our energy into a way that allows ourselves to embrace change; not fight against it.
Gratitude and humility can shine brighter than ever. We have more than enough right in front of us.
For those of us who have a roof over our head, three meals a day, and a community of people we can still keep in touch with, we really are fortunate.
It is a devastating time, of that there’s no doubt. Grief, stress and anxiety are all things we cannot take lightly. Everyone is affected in their own way, but none of us has to go through this alone. We can change the way we think during this time, even if that means seeking external help like counselling if you think that’s what you need.
It seems easier said than done, but if you want to stop feeling stuck, there are ways to change this, and it starts with an active choice made by you.
Feature Image Source: Public Domain Pictures
