Monday marked the 1-year anniversary of COVID-19. When we first learned about the coronavirus, nobody could anticipate the detrimental effects it would have globally. But despite the chaos, we can find joy in our lives.
Today I am sharing tips about how to enjoy at least some elements of the present when you’re hitting a pandemic wall.
Appreciate the Extra Time
Being laid off amid the pandemic was one of the best things that ever happened to me. As I reflected on my career options, I realized I needed something more fulfilling than an excellent compensation plan. I needed a career that allowed me to build meaningful relationships, cultivate a sense of community where people feel welcomed by using empathy and creative writing skills and that offered a flexible schedule.
Whether you start a new business, start a project, rediscover a passion, or make a career transition, do it! Conduct research, contact people who can help you, make a plan and begin. One of the most precious things the past year has granted us is ample time to be intentional about what we do next.
Take Risks
I could have spent $500+ on a semester-long course to earn a certification within an industry I’m barely interested in, secure a job in that field and then move.
But that’s not how it worked out.
In early September, I realized my old apartment had served its purpose and that it was time to move on. Three weeks later, I signed a 12-month lease and moved into a new apartment complex with no regrets.
Taking a leap is scary as fuck because there’s no control over what’s next, no systematic approach, and no comfort in familiarity. It’s based on complete faith in knowing things will work out.
Cherish the Simple Things
Music plays a key role in your mental health and can improve your mood. Blasting Disclosure’s Nocturnal in my car or jamming to Marcos Valle’s Nao Tem Nada Nao while running errands on a beautiful sunny Friday afternoon makes the day more joyous, less monotonous and less lonesome.
Maintain Your Friendships
Because I have been social distancing since March 2020, I’ve become accustomed to being alone. Consequently, I forget I have friends I can call. If you’re experiencing this, I recommend reaching out to a friend and propose weekly or monthly calls to stay connected.
For example, my old college friend and I hadn’t called each other since August but agreed to do monthly FaceTime calls instead of exclusively communicating via text conversations.
Ultimately, we have 100% of the power to cultivate joy into our lives.
What are you grateful for? How are you finding joy? Let me know in the comments below.
Belle in Progress 
Great share. After I made the nessarry adjustments I tool advantage of the time spent working from home. I cleaned out all the clutter, met with a retirement advisor to plan my retirement in Five year, took advantage of low course certificate courses because I am changing careers, and I finally did the big chop ( my hair) love short hair. My list is longer and I am going continue to use this time to reorganize my life❤️
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That’s great! I’m happy you’re making changes. And congrats on the big chop – you’re braver than me 🙂
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