This pandemic has opened up a boundless supply of virtual resources that we can access at the click of a button. Understandably, it’s frightfully easy to fall into the abyss that is “all the things I could be doing right now if I wasn’t in quarantine.” Soon it becomes an oscillation between lack of motivation by having to stay inside and being productive to get everything done. I have found it very difficult to find a balance which allows these two places to exist without causing mental whiplash. We begin to look to the past for temporary moments of joy, but one of the most precious things we have is the present moment and the ability to be aware of it. Being aware of the present moment is how you can take full advantage of it. Look to the past only to remind yourself of your resiliency. You have been through a lot and you have made it to the other end. Remind yourself how strong you are on a regular basis but use it for the present so you can be even stronger in the future.
I’d like to offer some suggestions to remain in a healthy mindset. This does not mean avoid your true feelings throughout isolation. If you are feeling something, it is always important to give it attention. But I hope this will help to develop more of those feelings into positive ones rather than negative.
The first step is to practice looking at this situation as an opportunity rather than a setback. The moment we do this is the moment we create an openminded headspace to take advantage of this time. Being on your own is a perfect opportunity to learn to connect with yourself and do things for yourself that you haven’t been able to do in the past. Turn off the news, listen to a podcast, watch a TED Talk, read a book, read an article, listen to an album, learn a new skill.
The next step is to take a moment and think of or write down something that you’re interested in or have always wanted to learn. For me, there was an episode of a podcast that I have been putting on hold for a long time. Remember to be realistic with your time. You know yourself best and what you can truly keep yourself accountable for.
Lastly, commit and have fun! I’d like to offer a few suggestions in your openminded endeavors!
Books:
The following links gives access to a plethora of free books:
Podcasts:
1. The Social Work Podcast
2. Skeptics Guide to the Universe
3. Star Talk (with Neil deGrasse Tyson)
4. Revisionist History
5. Oprah’s SuperSoul Conversations
6. Not Another D&D Podcast
7. The Good is in The Details (Professor Gwendolyn Dolske)
If you’re in need of a pick me up!
This is a link to a YouTube channel that John Krasinski (from The Office) has put together called, “Some Good News” and it will certainly lift your spirits if you are feeling down.
Songs to pick you up
1. “Animal Spirits” by Vulfpeck
2. “Dog Years” by Maggie Rogers
3. “Buttercup” by Hippocampus
4. “Dust” by Oh Wonder
5. “Elevate” by St. Lucia
6. “Good News (Ya-Ya Song)” by MUNA
7. “Sailingsong” by A Fine Frenzy
8. “Dancing On Glass” by St. Lucia
Just bored?
This is a link to a free online adventure quest that includes a series of small games and puzzles!
- Rachel L.