In March of 2020, when almost all of the world went into a lockdown, all of our lives were practically turned upside down. It was a change that was beyond unexpected. A complete dissolution of how our lives once used to be. Delivery food replaced our fine dining and cafe experiences, groceries were all bought off of the apps that once delivered only clothes, shoes, and other less essential things, and Zoom parties replaced our weekly gatherings with friends and family. What changed most drastically is how we received education. Our phones and laptops replaced teachers and notebooks, and our bedrooms became our lecture halls.
As the whole World collapsed into one big work-from-home situation, we were left to discover uncharted territories. Productivity seemed at an all time low and the feeling of stagnation only rose. However, there are little things one can practice every day in order to feel less burdened by this situation. Here are a few ways to encourage productivity within yourself while sitting in your bedrooms.
- Create a routine: Understand when you’re able to produce the most optimal results and plan your day around that time.
- Prepare your workspace: It’s psychologically proven that having a designated workspace makes you feel less lethargic and enhances productivity. Whether it’s a desk, your dining table or just the couch, make sure you find a space away from your cozy bed so that your brain can distinguish between work and relaxation spots.
- Practice mindfulness: Take time away from your phone and any other electronics for at least a few minutes each day to give your eyes and brain time off from the digital space. Take up yoga or just deep breathing and stretching to get in touch with your inner self.
- Maintain a balanced diet and REST!: It is important to eat a well-balanced diet on time and get sufficient amounts of sleep at night. It contributes greatly to your health and wellness. Don’t hesitate to order in some of your favourite treats now and again, but try not to make a habit of it. Always try to strike a balance between happiness and health.
- Give time to your hobbies: College is pressure. A lot of it, no doubt. Give yourself sufficient breaks. Do what you love. Paint, sing, dance, watch your favourite TV shows, cook. Practice all your hobbies to the fullest.
P.s. You can always find interesting free courses that could be related to your hobby online! This way you get to learn a new skill while doing something you love.
- Pay attention to your mental health: This is probably the most important thing to keep in mind as we move forward in this pandemic. It is a difficult time for everyone and there is an influx of bad news almost everyday. Reach out to someone if you ever need help processing your emotions. Therapy is a good idea but if you’re not comfortable reaching out to a stranger yet, talk to someone you know- a parent, friend, a relative. Do not suffer in silence. Your mental health is just as important as your physical health, if not more!
We hope that these few tips can help you make it out of this pandemic relatively unscathed. Meanwhile, go ahead and leave us some comments on ways in which you de-stress after a difficult weekday. We’d love to hear from you. Till then, stay safe and healthy!
– By Rubaiya Karim