The past couple of years have been a whirlwind. Time has been flying by, yet it also feels like it is standing still. So much has changed about the ways we live and interact with people. From telecommuting to ordering groceries online, it’s possible your routine has altered significantly. As borders open and people try and return to their pre-pandemic lives, you might feel like you are trying to balance your old life with your new one.
If you find this juggle to be a struggle, check out these five tips from our staff to help you maintain sanity through these crazy times.
1. Journaling
Journaling is a great exercise in taking your thoughts and putting them to paper. Many people enjoy journaling at the beginning of their day when thoughts and ideas feel fresh and are less likely to make them feel fatigued. Whenever you have a quiet moment, find a pen and journal you admire, a calm space to think, and set a timer for 5-10 minutes. Write down how you are feeling, what you have planned for the day, or whatever is on your mind. The best part about journaling is that there doesn’t need to be a structure to how you do it. Once your timer goes off, you can put away your journal and continue with your day, feeling refreshed and having a greater sense of clarity.
2. Exercising
Exercising is another excellent option for maintaining sanity. There are many different types of exercises you can engage in, from walking around your neighborhood to doing yoga stretches to something high-intensity like kickboxing. Mix it up and try a variety to see what you enjoy and determine your goals. Are you looking to blow off steam after a long day at work? Unwind after dinner? Begin your day feeling alert and restored? Exercising can give you the outlet you need to find and release energy. Staying active also has numerous health benefits and is scientifically proven to improve your mental health and mood!
3. Take Up a Hobby
Taking up a hobby is a fun activity to engage in during difficult times. The very act of accomplishing something can leave you feeling better than when you started. It doesn’t matter if you are starting a new hobby or revisiting an old one – taking the time to do something outside of work and just for yourself can be a great reminder of what you are capable of. Some hobby suggestions include knitting, crocheting, painting, cooking new recipes, gardening, and playing an instrument. Whatever hobby you decide on, remember that it should be separate from your work or side hustles. The focus of a hobby is to enjoy it for what it is – without any greater motive.
4. Call Someone You Care About
Whether it is a regular, scheduled phone call or a sporadic one when someone is on your mind, taking the time to call someone you care about rather than sending them a message can make a positive difference in your mood. In fact, there is research that backs this up. When talking to someone on the phone, you are likely to feel more connected to the person you are talking to versus if you had sent a text message. So, don’t be afraid to break the ice and make that first call! The person on the receiving end is more than likely going to appreciate the thoughtfulness you’ve put in here.
5. Make Time for Yourself
Making time for yourself is quite possibly the most crucial tip for maintaining your sanity. Time is one of the most precious commodities we have, and sometimes that concept can get lost between work and school and friends and family. Even if your schedule is jam-packed, schedule some time for yourself. Whether it’s for 30 minutes after dinner or a couple of hours on Saturday mornings, make sure you plan it and do your best to stick with it. For example, you can read a book, go for a walk, learn a new skill or meditate. If you can make time for yourself, you not only have something to look forward to, you can also find a sense of gratitude that comes with taking care of yourself.