During this lockdown, we have all experienced anxiety and stress at various degrees, mainly because of the uncertainty that surrounds us and the fear of the unknown, due to the Covid-19 epidemic. Our daily pattern resembles that of a nonmonotonic graph. On some days we are very productive, our spirits are high, energy is on point and we get things done. Other days are just dull, energies are low, and we can barely even get through the introduction of an article. But I think there is no more comforting feeling than knowing that we are all in the same boat. We are all frustrated by the thought of how much time has gone to waste, precious time that we could have used to maybe optimize the first objective of our projects. We know we can never get this time back, so the best we can do is maximize on productive days, because there is no telling when that graph is going to start decreasing again. I think the best thing we can do for ourselves right now is to celebrate the little “victories”. If today you managed to read an article or two, tomorrow you write a paragraph or two, by the end of the week you will not be in the same position you were when the week began. Celebrate that movement, no matter how tiny the step may seem. Remember slow and steady wins the race!
Without a doubt, we all started the year with a plan, but seemingly that plan is disappearing bit by bit like the morning dew when the sun comes out, as the lockdown keeps us bound in our homes. With this comes a lot of strain on our state of mental health. As we attempt to adjust and familiarise ourselves with these unfamiliar territories, we ought to be cautious to not self-neglect. Take care of you first, because just as the blind cannot lead the blind, if you are unwell you cannot help the next person. So, stay positive, even though that may sound like a distant concept, but a positive spirit is very contagious, and we need those, now more than ever.
Here is a little magic you can sprinkle on your day to make it brighter:
Set small goals: It is not easy; however, I have found that setting small goals that I would like to achieve each day helps a lot. So, make a little “to-do list”, do not overpack it though, just so you avoid being overwhelmed. Add three to five things, depending on your goal for each day. Doing this every day, and seeing everything I managed to get done each day, has been really motivating for me.
Put time aside for writing: I have also discovered that having a set time for writing is very helpful. I did not realize how much I could get done in an hour, but it is remarkable once you get started and make this your daily routine. Pick a time that works for you when you are most productive. I am a night owl, and some of you work better in the morning. Whatever time works for, just take an hour, and focus on your writing. However, you do not have to limit yourself to a set time (1 hr) - make hay while the sun shines.
Acknowledge the progress: Sometimes I find myself frustrated because I did not get much done that day. There are days where I only manage to write one perfect sentence and it feels like it was not enough, like I could have done better. But I have developed a habit of acknowledging the little that I did get done. That one perfect line or paragraph is not a full page or a complete chapter, but it is a step in the right direction. It might not seem like great progress, but the bits and pieces will eventually add up. So don’t beat yourselves up for only writing one paragraph, rather, celebrate small victories because they are the fuel that keeps us going.
Make time for yourself: I know it is easy to get caught up in the midst of everything else going on in our lives; we find ourselves knee-deep in the race against the endless deadlines, we forget to take care of ourselves, and we put everything else before our mental health. Taking care of yourself is an essential service to you, so pause and breathe. On days when you are feeling anxious or lack motivation, go for a walk/jog, meditate, watch a movie or two, try out a new hobby, or maybe call a friend (video calls are my personal favourite). Remember, take care of your present self, so your future self can thank you.
Sincerely,
Nontobeko Mthembu
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