The [temporary] new normal.

I know I can only speak for myself here, but the current state of the world is quite overwhelming. While people are trying to stay productive and positive, sometimes there are days where that is just not on the list of things to do. Working from home is weird, staying at home 24/7 is weird...while your cats & dogs (in our case, dog and turtle) may think this is great, it is very important to try to help yourself stay positive and fresh. This is very much challenged by practicing social distancing while missing weekly family dinners and weekend gatherings with friends.

Here are some things that I have been doing to keep my routine in check and attempt to boost productivity (while making sure my mind is still being taken care of):

1. Challenge yourself with an activity. I have promised myself to do one drawing a day. I Google searched "30 day drawing challenge" and got a list. I'm now on day 17! I've gotten both my Nana and my mom doing it as well, they're crushing it.

2. Get in a workout routine. There are tons of workouts you can find on Pinterest, YouTube, Instagram, and even, weirdly enough, TikTok. Everyone is trying to stay fit inside their homes, so the creativity for staying active is out there.

3. If you're home with your partner or roommates or best friends, it helps to try to do something towards the end of the day together every night. My boyfriend and I end our day watching either a show or a movie, currently we're almost done with Parks and Recreation. We've crushed Star Wars, Harry Potter, a few seasons of 24, and we're also working on going through the Marvel Universe (again, but hellooooo Captain!). Grab a bowl of popcorn and a glass of wine (or juice if my little cousins are reading this, hi guys!) and wind down.

4. Zoom or FaceTime with your friends and family. Our friend group is tight knit, so we have been trying to Zoom about once a week with everyone on the call. This is awesome in any situation, we have friends that live states away from us being able to "hang out" regularly. Just a bit of positivity in the clouded reality.

5. If you are still working from home, try keeping your work hours what they would normally be inside the office. This may be difficult, but it helps keep your body on track.

6. Pop notes or little care packages in the mail for your friends and family. It will help you feel close to them while also making their day! Every ounce of positivity is appreciated.

7. My last note is to check in with your loved ones. Sitting at home can be tough day after day, but hearing from someone you love, and maybe someone you haven't talked to in a while, will bring a smile to your face and keep you connected to your normal life.

Friends and family, this is all temporary. Take care of yourselves, hug your animals, sit outside for a minute if you can safely, and take a deep breath.

Stay safe and wash your hands!