Don’t Just Survive Social Distancing, Thrive Instead
There’s never been a better time to invest in yourself.
Especially while you have the extra bandwidth to do so with the entire world sheltering in place.
As we venture further along our journey together in the midst of this current pandemic, it’s important that you broaden your scope of thought to include what will come in the end.
Because it will end, and you will be in a different place when that happens.
The only question is: how will you define your own outcome?
Some will choose to languish while others take advantage of the level playing field created by the worldwide mandated shut down.
“Life shrinks or expands in proportion to one’s courage”
More important than the current affairs of the world is your reaction to it.
You cannot control what events happen, but you can control your choices as a result of it.
There’s still calm in the chaos, you just have to find it and be decisive with how you use it. Take some authority back in your life by choosing to invest in yourself and a better tomorrow.
Because investing in your future is the first step towards hope.
Where Do You Start?
Ok, now what?
Most new skills or habits need a little direction and a “jumping-off point” to effectively channel that energy towards an achievable goal.
After all, these are new skills or habits you wish to acquire, not old ones that you’re already a pro at.
So, to help facilitate and streamline this process, I’ve curated 6 boards on Pinterest covering trending topics in the wake of COVID-19.
Each board is broken down into clear sections making it easy to select a category to explore further depending on your interests.
Here’s an overview of the boards I created as a resource of inspiration on Pinterest.
Home Workout Routines -
Staying healthy is a strong recommendation to guard yourself against the virus - so take advantage of this time to be strong physically. Even if you're just starting out there's never been a better time to take control of your health. Imagine welcoming summer confidently as the world emerges from social distancing. Get inspired by these homework routines with no to little equipment required and start today.
Home Improvement Project Ideas -
For many people around the world right now, there’s likely a lot more downtime around the house. Take advantage of the additional space in your schedule to upgrade your home, and tackle some projects that you’ve been putting off. Get your home improvement “game on” and get some inspiration no matter how big or small the task is.
*this board actually has 22 sections not just the 10 listed below.
Best Self Care Tips -
This board is jammed packed with self-care tips that should take you not only through this pandemic but beyond. There's never been a better time to form some new positive habits. By doing so you will be positioned advantageously once the world transitions back to a “new normal”. So, look at this time as an opportunity to improve, expand and build upon the habits you already have to make them better than ever. Get inspired and start today.
DIY Home Decor -
Downtime means project time! Get some inspiration from the pros and make them your own. This board is filled with weekend-worthy projects that could give your home small upgrades, or add a little beauty to your surroundings. Making your environment a special place to inhibit is more important now than ever. So get excited and pick up those tools, it's time to activate your creativity.
How To Be Creative -
Don't wait until retirement to start that passion project. Beginning something creative is simply food for the soul. It can be an empowering tool to help you get through challenging times by distracting your energy and redirecting it to something that is mentally engaging instead. This board has plenty of tips, strategies, and ways to stay motivated while you pursue your new interest. So get inspired and open the door to an infinite amount of possibilities to explore your inner creativity.
Working From Home Tips -
Whether you're new to working from home or not, these tips will inspire you to organize your time more efficiently, set smarter goals, mitigate distractions effortlessly and exceed your productivity levels from pre-social distancing. You may even develop some new habits to take back with you to the office! Crush your 9 to 5 work-life at home with these strategies.
Setting Yourself Up for Success
So now you have a resource to get a spark of inspiration and pick up a new project.
Here’s some tips to set you up for success -
Stay organized. Use software like Trello or Asana to keep you on task.
Find an accountability partner to regularly report to and get encouragement from.
Don’t forget to celebrate your wins, no matter how small.
I created an infographic as a visual reference on how best to set and accomplish your goals below.
Create an Inspired LIfe
Now it’s up to you to make the best of the extra time that has been given to you. In fact, it takes an average of 66 days to develop a new habit and have that behavior become automatic. That’s just enough time to ride out this pandemic.
Give yourself an edge when the world finally emerges from the blanket of uncertainty. Make it a point to come out of this happier, healthier and more inspired than ever.
You got this!