strong during covid-19 speech
Answers
The COVID-19 pandemic is challenging us in ways we could never have imagined, from unprecedented amounts of family time to homeschooling to working remotely—or not working at all. These sudden, rapid changes in the way we live, coupled with uncertainty, can feel overwhelming. While we may know that it’s helpful for everyone to stay positive, it’s sometimes easier said than done. Here are some suggestions for uplifting your outlook:
Recognize what you are doing well and give yourself credit. It may be tough right now, but you have managed some things really well. Think about the physical, logistical, mental, and emotional struggles you may have encountered in the last few months, and the good—even great—way you approached and handled those challenges.
Top up on sleep and get on top of things you usually push to the side. If you are working from home and/or quarantine, you may have more time on hand because of the removal of commuting time. Take this time to get an extra hour in bed or get on top of that project that keeps getting shoved to the bottom of your to-do list.
Practice gratefulness. Even when life seems bleak, there are things we still have for which we should be grateful. Keep a gratefulness journal or do a quick morning gratefulness meditation. Notice both significant and small items for which you are thankful. Important things can include your home and shelter, your health, your family, your friends, your ability to put food on your table, and other essentials. Small things are more momentary pleasures, like a hot cup of coffee, a calming bath, a good book, or a funny meme. Be sure to include as much detail into your gratefulness practice as possible.
Exercise. This should be part of your daily routine already, but now even more so. If you’re an active individual, odds are you’ve made necessary adjustments to keep exercising at home instead of at your usual gym, which is likely on lockdown right now. If you’re not regularly active, make exercising a priority and incorporate it into your day. Aside from its physical benefits, exercising releases endorphins in your body, which trigger feelings of positivity, so be sure to include an exercise routine in your day, even if it’s only a short one.