Right now it seem as though we all have plenty of time on our hands. By this point even our usual go-to’s to occupy our minds have lost their luster. Books have been read, tv shows binged, and spring cleaning completed.
So, what are we left with? Oftentimes it comes down to our thoughts. And with that, sometimes comes overthinking, emotions, and boredom. Combined, the three can create a strong desire for change simply for the sake of change.
Before you make that change, especially if it’s a big change, I caution you to pause for a moment and ask yourself why you are making the change. Is it a healthy change? Is it a change that you would make regardless of the feelings the pandemic has brought on?
Big Decisions
Right now many of us are feeling emotional and looking for something to shake us out of the boredom and perhaps the blues brought about by the lockdowns and isolation. I caution anyone about making any big decisions about their relationships and life right now.
While it can be tempting to do so simply to bring some excitement of any sort to this seemingly unending monotony, remember, nothing lasts forever. This too shall end. And when it does, you will be left with the aftermath of your decision. Given that, before you make a big decision, ask yourself, do you really want to make this change?
Healthy Changes
Perhaps the answer is YES! This isolation can give us some introspective time we haven’t made room for in the past. Perhaps it will inspire us to pursue a hobby, start a new exercise program, or break a bad habit. These are all healthy changes that while derived by our current circumstances, they will serve us well.
Rash Decisions
However, perhaps the best answer is no or not right now. Perhaps it not the best time to make a big change. Our perspective may be skewed right now, we may be acting out of boredom, or perhaps we are just looking for something, anything, new to focus on.
All that said, before you make such a change, I encourage you to take some time (and we sure have it!) to really think through what is the impetus for the change you are thinking of making. What is the goal of the change? Will you be happy with this change after this pandemic? Taking a moment and avoiding a rash decision will most certainly help you avoid having any regrets now or when this is all over.
Have you Made Any Changes During the Pandemic?
How have they enhanced your life? Did you create a new healthy habit? Or, have you fallen victim to the rash decision? If so, what advice do you have for us about that?
All of this hasn’t really changed much for us, except my husband is working from home now. I have tried to make sure that I keep eating healthy and get as much exercise at home as possible. These are all great tips on making changes!
It sounds like you are handling the isolation wonderfully Michelle! I hope things continue to go very well for you! 🙂
The First 2 weeks were hard for me, I didn’t wanted to accept everything that was happening around us, but when I got over it, everything changed. Now actually I am feeling better than before! I have time to do my things (only MY things), I try activities I always wanted but never had time for them (painting), I renovated a little bit my flat and learned a couple of new recipes. I think the key is acceptance. When you accept everything that’s happening around, you find new ways how to live and be happy!
Thrilled to hear that you have found a “happy place” and acceptance with all the changes Sandra! 🙂
I’ve tried very much to use this time wisely and change things about myself! Some days have been good and some have been bad but then again I guess we all have our ups and downs. (Regardless of the lockdown)
Ashleigh – https://www.ashleighsmoments.com
I’m sure you are doing even better than you think Ashleigh! Stay safe 🙂
Nothing changed as such, but i consider it is an opportunity to make some positive changes. I am focusing on my blog and blog earnings in this lockdown.
Best of luck to you with your blog Vanesh – writing is a great activity to occupy your time with during isolation!
It feels like all of life is on hold, which is a weird feeling to have for so long – so I’ve also been holding off on making decisions, as much as I’ve almost had!
Me to Jupiter – at least when it comes to big decisions. I want to be in my typical mindset when I do so. Things just seem skewed right now.
One change I’m made is a commitment to daily physical activity. I’ve been walking on the treadmill for 20 minutes when I wake up each morning. I think it definitely sets a positive tone for the day!
Absolutely Jen – good for you! 🙂
I’m doing a lot more walking. My health has definitely got better in this time. That’s probably the biggest change. But it makes sense, since I use to drive 3 hours everyday to get to work and now I’m working from home. So why not make use of the time I have? Great post by the way x
I’ve taken up walking as well, esp. since I’m more sedentary working from home right now.
This period had thought me that I should be selfish about my goals and it okay for them to get push back or forward. I should be my own goal.
That sounds like you’ve put self-care first which is always a great goal Nafisa!
Spot on with this Lisa. I actually had a chat with a business advisor recently about quitting my business. With the lockdown, life gets hard and your right to say don’t make rash decisions. I’m waiting for this to be over and then will see where I go with it. Thanks for the advice!
You are very welcome Rohan – sounds like a good decision to wait and see how you feel after this upheaval is over!
No big changes for me, exercising less Because my gym is closed but I just walk/run outdoors. More time with my kids and family is a perk and just trying to stay positive and healthy. There is so much unknown in our future but it doesn’t help to stress about it, just taking it day by day.
Taking it day by day is a great strategy Joanna!
Your advice to be cautious with decision making during the pandemic is well served. I love that your recommend asking the question, “Will I be happy with this decision after the pandemic ends?”
Thank you Kimberlie – I’m glad you found it helpful! 🙂
As I work from home all the time this phase hasn’t meant I’ve had to make too many major changes other than socialising with people but I was having a conversation with my mum the other day about the number of people possibly making career changes after this. It’s a good time for reflection x
Sophie
You are so right – it’s a great time for reflection Sophie!
People need to change their priorities, especially on the spiritual side of things, during and after the Covid-19 pandemic.
I would have to guess a lot of that is happening right now – spot on Dan “Jay”!
These times have changed a lot of my routine which has been strange and rather unsettling at times! I haven’t made any big decisions or changes, only in terms of skincare and my skincare routines.
Holly x
http://www.adailydoseofholly.com
It sounds like you are on the right track Holly! 🙂
Nothing groundbreaking has really changed for me except the fact that I now blog regularly unlike when I was working. Thank for sharing this post.
You are welcome Rebiah – thanks for stopping by!
Thankyou to everyone who is commenting. These are tricky times but I know that blogs like these really help.
Thank you Louise Daniel – I appreciate you sharing that! 🙂