Starting 2021 Strong

Here are some tips and tricks to keep 2021 going strong!

Create a good workspace for yourself

During quarantine, it has become increasingly harder to focus and get work done. Creating a good workspace for yourself with minimal distractions and a comfortable atmosphere will allow you to be more productive and focus on your work.

Avoid going out when it is not necessary

As the pandemic drags on, it can be easy to feel as though you won’t get COVID-19, and it can be easy to choose to throw caution into the wind and be less careful than before. However, it is still very important to stay safe and avoid going out when it is not necessary, because the pandemic is still going on, and it is still very possible to get COVID-19. 

Always keep masks and hand sanitizer in your car

Although it is better to avoid going out completely, there are obviously going to be times when you need to go out. During those times, make sure to take extra precautions to stay safe. Keep extra masks in your car in case you ever forget yours at home. Keep hand sanitizer in your car so that, when you have to go somewhere, you can use hand sanitizer right away once you get back in the car.

Stay connected with your friends

This may be obvious to those that enjoy spending time with their friends and are missing their friends, but as the pandemic continues, it becomes increasingly important to stay connected with your friends (unless that is not your cup of tea). Take the time out of your day to relax and text or call a friend. This will help you stay grounded, feel less bored, and break you out of a cycle of constantly working and being on Zoom calls.

Pick up a new hobby

Stuck at home, it can start to feel like you’re repeating the same day over and over again. Try a new hobby to keep yourself occupied if you have free time. You might discover a new passion and you might find yourself enjoying quarantine much more.

Try listening to a new music genre

Music is a great way to pass the time, but if you’re constantly listening to the same artists or playlists, it can get repetitive. Try listening to a new genre or artist that you maybe never tried listening to before. Refresh your playlists and branch out.

Play in the snow

Now, for those of you who do not like the cold, this may not apply to you. However, for those of you who do, go outside! If it’s snowing enough, go sledding or build a snowman or make some snow angels. As childish as it may sound, it can be a great way to relax and have some fun. 

Keep a schedule for yourself to stay productive

It can be really hard to stay productive at home, especially if there are other distractions. Keep a schedule for yourself to keep track of any meetings you may have, as well as your assignments and other priorities. Use an online calendar, use a planner, use a notebook – whatever suits your fancy. Keeping an organized schedule can also help you feel less stressed because it will allow you to plan everything accordingly.

Do yoga

Yoga is a great way to relieve stress. It improves strength, balance, and flexibility, and it relaxes you which can help you sleep better. After sitting at a desk all day for your Zoom calls, yoga is also a great way to help with back pain. Yoga has many benefits, so if you haven’t already, give it a try!

Read a new book / book series

If you ever feel bored and you feel like you have nothing to do, try reading a new book or book series (or re-read / catch up with an old one you’ve read before). Whether you’re reading to escape reality for a little while, learn something new, or relax after a long day, reading is great for your brain and can help you sleep better. Reading a physical book would be better, and would allow you to take a break from technology for a bit, but reading an ebook can be a great alternative if you don’t have a physical book.

Make sure to take breaks and avoid sitting all day

It’s important to allow yourself to take breaks and relax throughout the day. Avoid working on homework and other tasks for the entire day without taking breaks. Similarly, avoid sitting all day. Take some time to stretch and/or walk around your house, even if only for a few minutes. Make sure to take breaks in between Zoom calls and in between assignments.

Create art

Art is yet another great way to relieve stress. Whether it be literature (creative writing, poetry, etc), visual arts (paining, drawing, etc), music (singing, playing an instrument, etc), or any other form of art, spend some time creating art. Try something new, or do something you used to do but stopped doing. Allow yourself to let your imagination and creativity flow.