Initially observed in the Wuhan province of China at the end of 2019, the novel corona virus has taken the world by storm. The virus has now spread to over 200 countries and territories across the globe and was characterized as a pandemic by the World Health Organization (WHO) on 11 March 2020. Although mankind has faced pandemics of varying intensities, the corona virus has been the most devastating in this contemporary era as it is very new and very little scientific material is available on it. These are indeed frightening times as cities or even entire countries have shutdown. For the majority of the population, the uncertainty surrounding corona virus is the hardest thing to handle. Not knowing how exactly we’ll be impacted or how bad things might get makes it all too easy to catastrophize and spiral out into overwhelming dread and panic. Many resorted to panic-buying, hoarding, and inflating prices, others resorted to self-isolation, and some to serve others in such dire times.

FOCUSING ON WHAT IS CONTROLLABLE

We’re facing colossal mayhem, and there is so much that is outside of our control, such as the longevity of the pandemic, behavior of others, and what’s going to happen in our communities. This uncertainty is difficult to wrap your head around, and thus, people fall down the internet rabbit hole searching for answers to questions they don’t have, and overthinking scenarios that do not exist. As long as this is our strategy we are only going to feel drained, anxious, and overwhelmed.

If this is where you stand, it is high time you shift your focus to things you can control. The severity of the outbreak in your city, town or country is not in your control, but protecting yourself and your loved ones are. Here’s how you do this;

Follow ALL directives from healthcare directives
Regularly wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
Use hand sanitizers with at least 60% alcohol.
Follow social distancing protocols.
Have a good diet, do not overeat, and exercise.
Seek support if you feel overwhelmed.

MAKE IT COUNT

Self-isolation during this COVID-19 pandemic comes with a long list of new challenges, however, across the other end the opportunity for new perspectives to emerge. Going about your life by making adjustments can lead to positive shifts and growth. Here is what you can do

Set up a routine

Routines make one disciplined, and discipline is the holy grail of success. While many will waste the time they will not have otherwise, you can avail it by;

Get ready for the day – Start your day with an aim. Workout, take a shower, dress up in designated breathable work clothes (not necessarily official clothes), and do your hair.
Designate a workspace – The scene sets the mood, therefore, allot yourself a place in the house with a suitable atmosphere to work.
Set a schedule – Vague plans seldom lead to success. Plan your day, your activities and milestones. This is most effectively done the night before, so spare a few moments and plan your day.
Create and eating and sleeping plan – Being in close proximity to your kitchen, and bed are the most tempting devils of all times. Most people will over-eat and most definitely over-sleep. You can get ahead of that by planning your meals, and snacks for the day, as well as sleep times aimed at least 6 hours and at most 8 hours.

Ps. don’t hit the snooze button, as that only messes with your sleep cycle making you grumpy and feeling dull the whole day

2. Get a Hobby

There is a lot you can do aside binge-watching TV shows. Get up, brush yourself, and work on something you always wished you had time for. This can range from anything including photography, painting, a musical instrument of your choice, writing a book, cooking or even taking care of plants, to name a few.

Start it, stick to it, and by the time we are back on the streets, you will be perfect at it.

3. Develop the Killer Brand Idea

Ideas are the stepping stone of all revolutions. It is easy to fall into the pattern of monotony; think hard, think outside the box and don’t forget to write it down. WRITE it down, no matter how silly or trivial it sounds.

Come up with something, explore every angle possible, sleep over it, and make sure it is presentable.

Get on top of your finances

The recent shutdown has resulted in the economy taking a massive hit. To get on top of that, you have to be one of the few who don’t struggle with spending, saving or even both. While it can be uncomfortable to talk about, having a handle on your finances is important, and even more important during this pandemic and its aftermath.

According to Laborers’ Health & Safety Fund of North America (2019), you can do this effectively by considering whether each statement is “true” or “false” for you and your family. Strong financial literacy will be indicated the more “trues” you have.

You have an emergency fund, or one is underway that could cover your expenses for three months.
After your monthly bills, paying down debt, especially high-interest rate credit cards or auto loans, is your top priority.
Your spending habits on non-essentials (e.g., entertainment, eating out) still allow you to save money each month.
You’ve tallied your average monthly expenses compared to your average monthly income and are comfortable with the results.
You’ve spent time thinking about your future financial goals and discussed them with your spouse or partner.

5. Have Family Time

Your home is your safe haven and not a prison. Feeling cooped up is going to be a mutual feeling as we spend more time within the four walls of our homes. If you have children at home, start by explaining to them why you are all forced to stay indoors. Create routines for them, keep track of their screen time, and spend time with them.

If you live alone or far from your family, it imperative to connect online with family and friends. Keeping in touch with your loved ones is good for your mental health and that of your family and friends.

Finally, observe the guidelines issued by the government. STAY HOME STAY SAFE