Right now there’s a lot of uncertainty. We are living in unprecedented times and so much of what we once considered to be guaranteed is up in the air. Vacations and weddings have been cancelled indefinitely, students who thought that they would be dorming at college for the first time are discovering that online classes may be here to stay for a bit, and no one has a clue when we’ll be able to go to a concert again. While this pandemic is frightening and at times depressing, this time has forced the world to pause and reflect. While scrolling through Instagram one day, I came across a quote on the account @quotesbychristie that said “In the rush to return to normal, use this time to consider which parts of normal are worth rushing back to.” I think we can all agree that there are aspects of our pre-COVID life that we’re grateful to have a break from. There are many things that I miss and I’m hoping to return back to normal soon (although I’m not sure if that will ever happen) but I also have a newfound appreciation for my current way of life. I appreciate that this time has given me the opportunity to:
Spend More Time In Nature
While malls and restaurants were still closed I have began to spend most of my time outdoors. I started going on walks and even bringing my laptop on the front porch to do my work. It has been so refreshing and I don’t know why I didn’t live this way all the time. Spending time in nature makes me feel centered and in touch with myself. This is definitely something I want to continue to do even after everything is completely back to normal.
Work Remotely: The flexibility of working from home has transformed my life. I know it will probably come to an end soon and I truly don’t know how I’m going to go back to working 9-5 in an office. I love having the ability to take breaks to go for a walk or talk on the phone without fearing that I’ll be perceived as unproductive. I never thought I was someone who would enjoy working from home but now that I have tried it, in the future I will definitely apply to more remote positions.
Exercise Daily: I’ve found that daily exercise is extremely important for my physical and mental health (shocker, I know). Not only does it keep weight off of my body, but it also leaves me feeling levelheaded and focused. I went from going to the gym 3 days a week to walking/running 5 miles daily and incorporating yoga, dance, or strength training every other day. When the gyms first closed I didn’t know how I would be able to get a proper workout in without the equipment they provided. Now that I forced to get more creative I think I’ll cancel my gym membership and continue exercising the way I have been. I’ve found that this time of exercise is much more motivating and enjoyable.
Live My Life On My Own Terms: If there is absolutely anything that this pandemic has taught me, it’s that life is short, unpredictable, and can be turned upside down in the flash of an eye. Therefore, I want to live my life as intentionally and authentically as possible. This is extremely hard and I honestly haven’t been thriving in this department. Either way, I’m still incredibly grateful that I was given this perspective and I know it will help me in the future to follow my dreams and live life more freely.
I know at this point most of us are getting really sick and tired this pandemic and want everything to go back as they were. It has definitely been a long few months and I too would love for this all to end. I hope everyone has been staying safe and healthy. What have you guys been up to and how has this time transformed your life?
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