Things are slowly starting to re-open, though I wouldn’t quite say they’re getting back to normal yet. I’ve been trying to keep some normalcy and keep myself upbeat with these strategies.
Dressing for the Life You Want
I’ve been trying to dress like I normally would (well, maybe slightly less extravagantly) as part of this campaign to keep my spirits up. The first month or two of quarantine I was wearing leggings and sweaters and sweats and I felt like garbage. Even putting on a simple shift dress lifted my mood a thousandfold.
Routine, Routine, Routine
Sadly my routine has changed from a packed schedule of fancy parties and art events to a daily walk to the post office and the occasional Target run. But it’s a routine nonetheless! Even scheduling a few hours a day for a specific task (work, exercise, or even a hobby, for me sewing or reading) can bring structure to what’s otherwise an endless number of hours.
Helping My Future Self Out
Because I’m in a scenario where I have extra time and money due to my temporarily chilled out lifestyle I’ve been making conscious choices to help myself out when things kick back up again. Things like investing in household basics that I’m always putting off, saving money for things I’ve always wanted to do (like cooking classes) and organizing every crevice in my apartment. Instead of looking at it like busy work I see it as helping out my future self when I’m running around again.
Spreading Joy
I may not be able to do good in person at the moment (and I’m missing my nursing home friends DESPERATELY) but I’m still trying to give back to the community and my loved ones whenever possible. I’ve been donating to racial justice funds, signing petitions, and having conversations with the white people in my life about privilege. I’ve been sending cards to my elderly friends every week. And I’ve been scheduling phone calls and sending mail to my loved ones to incite smiles wherever possible. It’s small but doing good for others in any capacity is a good use of energy!