BY OCTAVIA DANIELS

The onset of COVID-19 and ever-changing news being thrown at us on a daily, almost minute-by-minute, basis can become quite overwhelming and draining on both a personal and professional level. So how can you remain positive, stay healthy and remain focused at work in the midst of a crisis? Here are a few tips that can not only help you during this unusual time, but also as part of your regular daily practice.

1. Wake up with Gratitude – Now more than ever, the gift of life is appreciated by everyone worldwide. Facing the morning with a daily gratitude mantra sets the tone for the rest of your day. Also finding practices that speak to you (i.e. prayer, meditation, yoga) and incorporating them into your daily life further solidifies a feeling of peace.
2. Don’t Follow Updates Throughout the Day – It’s important for our mental health to limit how much information we are taking in. If it’s absolutely vital for you to know the current number of cases and new developments regarding the pandemic, set a specific time each day to read up on the latest. Give yourself a designated time frame, like 15 minutes, and then step away and go about the rest of your day. This applies not only to media outlets, but also – and sometimes especially – social media.
3. Do Something Fun – Yes, we are in our homes for a good part of the day, but that doesn’t mean we can’t take full advantage of it! If you have a yard, go out and play a game with your family. Go for a walk or run (if you can do so safely), or move your body with some other form of exercise. Watch a lighthearted, feel-good TV show or funny video. What’s happening around us is very sad, but we don’t have to be. Remembering to incorporate fun into your day lifts your spirits and encourages positivity – which can help increase immunity and fight off illnesses.
4. Map Out Your Day – If you’re fortunate enough to be one of those that have a job and are working remotely, it will require discipline to stay on task throughout the day. Set a Routine! When starting your day, make a to do list and work your way through it. If it’s easier for you to focus on the more challenging tasks in the morning, do those first – or vice versa. It is also important to get away from your computer for regular breaks…and don’t forget lunch! Set calendar reminders if you find this difficult to do.
5. Stay Connected – The isolation of social distancing and worry about what’s currently going on in our world can be a lot to carry emotionally. It is crucial that we stay connected to family and friends. Host a video call with friends, call your grandmother, create a family chat. Whatever way you find to connect, it will help dispel your anxiety and feelings of loneliness…not only in you, but also in those you love.
6. Accept and Know We Will Recover – Unfortunately COVID-19, social distancing and shelter-in-place are the current states of our world right now. Instead of fighting against it or wishing it was different, accept it. In acceptance, there is a sense of relief and clarity emotionally, mentally and spiritually. Being able to face the current circumstances can actually alleviate some of the pressure and worry. It also helps shift perspective to focus on the thousands who have recovered from the virus. And maybe, just maybe….we’ll walk away from this experience with more compassion and understanding for each other.

“In the blink of an eye everything can change. So forgive often and love with all your heart. You may not have that chance again.” –Zig Zigler

Wishing you peace, health and joy!