With COVID-19 still lingering around us and with school being out for the summer, it's important to think about what our "normal" will look like from now on during and after this social distancing phase. It can be hard to develop structure sometimes, especially for those who've never had to implement structure for themselves because their day was always outlined around their shift at their job or class time. Regardless of your situation, the first step to creating structure for your day is developing a routine. Developing a routine is important to help you feel a sense of purpose and keep you sane.
As students (current and graduates), we all know the importance of a schedule. Your class schedule tells you where to be, when to be there, and what class is at what time. Utilizing your class schedule gives you purpose every day because you know what materials you need to gather for the next day and what time you need to wake up in the morning. Your new schedule will give you the same sense of purpose and routine. Your schedule should revolve around your priorities and responsibilities of the day/week.
For those working from home, take time to adjust to your new work environment. Spend some time creating functional areas in your home so that you can switch up where you work within your home every other day or so. This change in environment could keep you engaged and inspired. Working in one area of your home for a long period of time could create a sense of comfort and result in laziness/lack of interest.
When building your schedule, remember to create some time for yourself. Take some time to reinforce some habits that were once important to you (facetiming family during your lunch break, listening to a podcast on your way to work, reading a book that you forgot you bought). Staying connected to family and friends and remaining rooted in your passions and values can help maintain self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment.
Most importantly, remember that this is a huge change for most people and you are not alone. Take it day by day and reach out to your support system. Social distancing doesn't mean that we have to be isolated.
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