Staying Positive in a Covid-19 World

For so many of us, the Covid-19 pandemic has inevitably changed our lives. The last few months have been somewhat scary to say the least and as time passes, it only seems that the virus creeps in closer and closer to home. As our local radio station put it, we’ve gone from mere numbers to names. In fact, it’s almost every day that we hear of someone we know who has either been infected or worse yet, succumbed to the virus. With so much trying news it makes staying positive almost impossible. What’s more, with all the restrictions we’re now facing, it brings on so much more anxiety.

So how do you stay positive in a Covid-19 world? Is it even possible? I thought I’d share some of the ways I’ve been trying to stay positive in the hopes of inspiring you to. It might not be easy, but there are little things you can do to stay sane, manage stress and make the most of this time alone.

Exercise more

For many of us, going to the gym was part and parcel of our everyday routine but with so many gyms closing or restricting their hours and numbers, it makes getting in a good work out pretty hard. But… it doesn’t have to be that way. Exercise is one of the best ways to boost endorphins and ultimately make you feel better. There are many apps and YouTube channels offering free workout sessions so you can exercise from the comfort of your own home. Check out your local gyms website or app – many have started offering free online classes as well.

With all the negativity going on in the world around us, reading is a great way to distract yourself from the outside world and even get lost in a completely new world all together. Whether it’s a hard copy book (which I much prefer) or through an electronic device, delve into someone else’s story far, far away and get lost in the words of a good book.

Listen to a Podcast or Ted talk

With all the time we now have being indoors, it’s perfect for finally listening to that Podcast you’ve long put off or watching that Ted talk you never got round to doing. Podcasts and Ted talks are a great way to wind down with a warm cup of coffee. One of my favourite Ted talks is Your Elusive Creative Genius by Elizabeth Gilbert:

Learn a new skill

One of the best ways to grow is by learning a new skill. Often we tend to say that we just don’t have enough time, but with the Covid-19 pandemic around, staying indoors has become a norm. We can’t go out for drinks with friends or just go browsing at the mall. All of which usually take out hours of our spare time. So what better time than now to start learning something you’ve always wanted to? Maybe try painting with water colours, fixing that phone you have thrown in your back cupboard or learning to use your DSLR camera…. better yet, maybe start that blog you’ve always wanted to! Do some research, find something you love and just start learning.

Take an online class

While you’re busy learning a new skill why not sign up for an online class as well? There are many sites out there affiliated with well known universities who offer some great online courses in marketing, IT and business. The great part is that you can also get a certificate when you complete the course which you can link to your CV or Linkedin profile. Try websites such as edX, Coursera and Skillshare.

Meditate

Meditation is a great way to soothe your mind and clear out any negative thoughts lingering in the background. With all the Covid-19 news and worries, it’s easy to get caught up in the anxiety of it all. Why not turn on some soothing music, close your eyes, slow your breathing and clear your mind for 5 minutes.

Catch up with family and friends

While you can’t actually see family and friends face-to-face, that doesn’t mean you can’t Skype, Zoom or Whatsapp call. Schedule some time in your calendar, make a cup of something warm and cosy (or maybe some wine on a Saturday night!) and catch up.

Finally reorganize things

Use this time to finally start those home projects that have been on your list for ages. You know what I’m taking about – clean out your closet, sort through that pile of old clothes in the spare room, redesign your bedroom or better yet, finally sort out your pantry. You’ll officially be able to tick something off your list. Goals!

Get creative and just DIY

Sometimes I lay awake thinking of all the DIY projects I want to try but never have enough time for. Being stuck at home on weekends means that you finally have time to invest in that project you’ve always wanted to try. I’ve finally starting creating my travel journals and actually started regular writing this blog. Maybe make that DIY travel board you’ve always wanted, or start a blog. Better yet, why not create a vision board!

Schedule some real R&R time

As women, we buy so many beauty products that we never end up using…. face masks from Sephora… crazy nail polish colours, hair treatments and scented body scrubs. Why not finally schedule some rest and relaxation time? Put on some soothing music, don on that face mask, sink into a bath full of bubbles and just beautify yourself.

Order some really yummy take out

Staying in doesn’t mean you can’t satisfy those foodie cravings you’ve been having. Order something delish and luxurious to eat though Uber Eats or Mr Delivery. Set up a candle light dinner for one, pour yourself a glass of something yum and enjoy your own company while you Netflix and chill.

Final thoughts…

The Covid-19 pandemic has shook our world in ways we never imagined possible. On an ordinary day, in an ordinary world, staying positive is hard so no wonder so many of us are feel anxious, scared and somewhat despondent. This year, I choose differently. I choose to embrace myself and all that makes up me – from the carefree whimsical laughs to the creativity that flows through my bones at 2 am. Staying positive a world riddled with a deadly virus doesn’t have to be impossible and I want to continue sharing stories and tips to, hopefully, inspire you to do the same.