As we adjust to what has become the new “normal” it has become increasingly more difficult to find balance in our lives. We are stuck between the feeling of normalcy and emergency. Given the current climate it is important to hang on to the stability that we all once felt just a few short weeks ago. We are living in extraordinary times, facing new and unprecedented challenges. Despite the chaos and uncertainty we are experiencing we must find a new balance to get us through these times, not only for ourselves but those around us as well.

Work

With the stay at home order in full affect many of us are adjusting to more of a work from home routine. It is imperative that we remind ourselves daily that this is only temporary. Finding balance when working from home can be challenging to say the least. We are now struggling to manage all of the household duties while being productive. Creating a conducive home office or work environment is crucial to staying on top of your responsibilities. Get up, take a shower and get dressed for the day as if you were going into the office. You will find that this promotes efficiency and increases motivation. Additionally, know when to stop! Keep your routine, do not over extend yourself. We cannot turn to work to pass the time; otherwise you may face depletion. No ones balance looks exactly the same, find what works for you.

Relationships

The beauty in quarantine is that it has allowed so many of us to slow down and really embrace each other (metaphorically speaking, of course). Use this time; take advantage of it to really strengthen your personal relationships. For a lot of us this was an area in our lives where we were struggling to find balance. As life begins to move faster and faster our personal relationships feel the affects of that. Set aside time to reach out to your loved ones or a friend you haven’t talked to in awhile. Designate time to spend with your children or significant other one on one. You may be surprised what you missed while you were caught up in the ebb and flow of life.

Self Care

It’s easy to get lost in the noise of what’s going on around us. We are all searching for ways to deal with the fears, stressors and uncertainty that has come along with Covid-19. Taking care of our mental and emotional well being has proven challenging but very necessary. Now more than ever, we have to allot time to ourselves. Designate hours throughout the day to take a break from the news and social media turn your attention to something more positive. As the cold weather breaks spend time outside, the benefits of sunshine and vitamin D are monumental. Try something new. This can be a book you’ve been meaning to read, a recipe you’ve never tried before or a new hobby you otherwise didn’t have the time for. Use this time to invest in yourself, it will greatly benefit you during and after quarantine.