Even though this was expected it has still felt like a surprise for many, including myself. Even though I want the best for the people around and the rest of the people in the country, I can’t help but feel a little annoyed at this lockdown.
However, as this is the new reality the best thing we can do is deal with it and move on. So how can we best deal with it?
Here are some tips and tricks to make this lockdown a little bit easier:
1. Carve out your work from home space – As we continue to work from home it is so important to find a proper space. Make this the place you go to as you start work and move away from when you are done. This will help you stay on track and also give you a healthy work/life balance. For more work from home tips, you can watch our video below or read our full article here.
2. Let there be light – This lockdown is going to be a little darker so invest in more lights – be it fairy lights or candles or just lamps to brighten up the environment. Darkness can sometimes make you feel low and no one wants that.
3. Feel your feelings – A lot of people feel guilty or weak for thinking that they can’t deal with the lockdown. But you have to remember this year has changed our lives and we have gone through so many ups and downs. So it is okay to feel what you are feeling. If you are sad then that’s okay. If you are angry that’s okay. Don’t suppress your emotions or put on a front. This will make the problem worse. Speak to someone you trust about how you feel.
4. Help someone out – One of the things I have learnt over the past 24 years of my life is that helping others makes us feel good. So at this time, try to help others wherever possible and see how good it makes you feel. You can help others by teaching them a new skill, doing their grocery shopping for them, being available to chat once a week, feeding the homeless, donating old clothes this winter, etc.
5. Stay active – I don’t mean do a 10k or weight lifting for an hour. Just move around a little bit. If you like dancing then maybe do a little dance workout. Stretch first thing in the morning or go for a short walk after work. Staying active is key to feeling happier, mentally and physically.
6. Read all about it – Or maybe don’t. You don’t need to read every newspaper or every news website. Actually some days you don’t need to read any of them. It is okay to take a break from the news once in a while. It can be overwhelming to be constantly connected to the news especially at a time when so much is happening in the world. So happily disconnect if you need to.
7. Friends and Family – Just because we are physically distant doesn’t mean we need to be socially distant. You can call, FaceTime, Zoom, play virtual bingo or virtual Pictionary. There are so many options so try different things, have fun and most importantly check in with your family or friends. It will make your lockdown life a little easier and the time it will go a little quicker.
Finally and most importantly remember, it will all be over. Maybe not today or tomorrow but it will be. So focus on that. Focus on yourself, invest in yourself, and soon we will be out of lockdown.
