While normally I try to keep my blog content light, there’s no denying that the world is in a rough place right now. It’s a scary time, and it can be hard to stay positive with all that’s going on. It seems like every day is filled with more bad news, and if you’re doing your part then it probably looks like you’re going to be cooped up inside for at least a few weeks. Even for homebodies like me, it’s going to be a tough transition. I’ve been trying to do little things every day to keep a positive attitude (and stay sane), so I thought I’d share some of the ways I’ve been doing that in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak. Where applicable, I’ve included some links to different resources and products that have brought me joy during this time. If you’re looking for some ways to boost your spirits, read on for a list of 35 things you can do to stay sane right now.
1. Listen to a great new playlist.
2. Look at pictures of cute dogs.
3. Make your bed every day (it’ll make you feel like your life is together, even if it’s not).
4. Go for a walk in the fresh air.
7. Make plans for a future trip.
8. Do something to brighten someone else’s day.
10. Have virtual happy hours with your friends.
11. Snuggle your pets (or apply to foster one while you’re working from home).
12. Do a puzzle.
15. Make a list of things you’re grateful for.
16. Plant new flowers in your garden (or on your balcony if you don’t have a garden).
17. Bake chocolate chip cookies.
18. Order a new bath bomb and take a relaxing bath.
19. Call your family.
20. Teach your grandparents to video chat.
21. Order takeout or delivery from your favorite local restaurant.
22. Learn something new.
24. Try out some new essential oil blends.
25. Use the Scener plugin for Netflix to have a virtual movie night with your friends.
26. Find new ways to stay active.
27. Unfollow or mute social media accounts that make you feel anxious or upset.
28. Get dressed and ready for work every day, even if you’re working from home.
29. Do a face mask.
30. Do a crossword puzzle or brain teaser to exercise your brain.
31. Sleep in when you can.
33. Limit your news intake if you’re feeling overwhelmed by constant updates.
34. Don’t pressure yourself to be productive at all times – make time for relaxation and self-care.
35. Do what brings you joy (home decor, cooking, Netflix binging – whatever makes you happy).
When all else fails, just remember that things are tough right now, but we’ll get through this and I know there are brighter days ahead. I want to end by saying that if you’re trying your best to stay sane and positive and still find yourself feeling disappointed, angry, sad, confused, or any other range of not-so-positive emotions, that’s ok too. If you take one thing away from this post, let it be that everyone has their own way of dealing with tough times, and we could all use a little bit of grace. If you’re using this time to get things done and be productive, that’s great. But if you just feel like lounging around in your pajamas and binging Netflix, you don’t need to feel guilty for that! We’re all just doing the best we can.
The truth is that this is hard for everyone. Regardless of how this is affecting you – whether your job security is at risk, you’re on the front lines going to work every day, you’re trying to balance kids and working from home, an event you were excited about got postponed, or you’re just feeling generally overwhelmed and anxious at the state of the world – your feelings are valid. It’s ok to feel upset right now, and know that you don’t need to feel guilty for any emotions you’re feeling. With that being said – I hope this list can be a starting point to a more positive tomorrow!
I’m doing my best to stay positive but all of this still has me feeling overwhelmed most of the time. If you have any wisdom to share or tips for staying positive during all of this, I’d love to hear it. Please feel free to share in the comments!
