5 Ways To Stay Positive During A Pandemic
There’s no denying that the coronavirus pandemic has officially changed life as we know it. In the attempts to flattening the curve, and to help slowdown the spread of the virus, the government and health officials have asked people to stay inside and practice social distancing. Stores are officially closed; kids might not be going back to school till September, and businesses are laying off hundreds/ thousands of employees. There are constant updates on every new station, channel and outlet, media platforms are flooding our feeds with information, and it seems like everyone we know is suddenly a medical professional. It’s hard not to feel overwhelmed, negative or even scared. It’s almost impossible to focus on anything else, let alone staying positive. I know everyone is looking for answers, especially when it comes to knowing when our lives will return to “normal”. It might be awhile until we know this, but it’s important to stay positive and know we are going to come out of this stronger.
A few weeks ago, I found myself glued to the news channels and social media, just waiting on the next update. It was so easy to get wrapped up in it, and with the news happening 24/7, it slowly took over my life. I was feeling more confused, stressed out and paranoid. I quickly realized I needed to choose a single new course, like Health Canada, World Health Organization or Government of Canada, and only update myself a maximum of 2 times a day (once in the morning and before bed). This helped with my own sanity and allowed me to accomplish daily tasks around the house, set new goals for the year, and just be present with my husband and fur babies. I highly suggest limiting the time you spend each day watching the news.
Remember everything will be okay. Remember you are resilient and can handle any obstacles life throws at you. Many of us remember 9/11, the financial crash of 2008/2009, all the major hurricanes and fires, yet we came out of each world disaster stronger and more united. We are stronger because of life’s ups and downs. Right now, the worst may be happening, but it’s important to know, it’s temporary. Tomorrow is going to be better and remember the reasons why you are here on Earth. Focus on the time you helped someone out, you accomplished a new goal, or even made someone smile or laugh.
It’s still super important to have a reason to get up in the morning, even if you are self-isolating from home. Continue setting small goals and sticking to a daily schedule. It’s easy to slip into binge watching Netflix, sleeping till noon and living in your pjs. Keeping busy and being productive will help promote a sense of hope and that your life is still rewarding. With social change and job loses, it is easy to feel discouraged and the will to continue, but keeping motivated will be the key to your happiness. Use your time wisely, learn a new skill, clean your home, take up a new artform, anything to keep your body and mind active.
It’s okay to feel happy and laugh. We are all looking for an escape and although social media can sometimes be toxic, it can help take your mind off current events. I recently joined TikTok, and although there’s no real value, it does make me laugh. I suggest muting Facebook and Instagram accounts that are negative, shaming people are straight up bullying others. You only want to be bringing in positive energy and happiness at this time. Silly TikTok or YouTube videos are an excellent way to keep you smiling. Even watching a few minutes a day can really brighten your day.
There’s a saying that not all superhero’s wear capes and I couldn’t agree more. Although the healthcare workers, front line workers and all the employees that are still going into work on the daily to help provide us with the services we need to carry on and be safe are the real hero’s of this pandemic, so are you. You may be feeling powerless right now, but know that by simply staying home, you are also doing your part. By remembering to wash your hands, resist the urge to hoard medical supplies, household necessities and sanitary products, you’re helping protect your friends, family, neighbours, the elderly, babies and the more vulnerable. All these small efforts of staying in and not spreading the virus has a huge part on your community. So, when you’re feeling like you’re not doing enough, by staying in, know that you are.
