Even if your life has changed drastically due to isolation during COVID-19, these tips can help you adjust to the new normal. Is it just me, or have the past few weeks felt like a year? Around the world, millions of people have upended their lives and entered self-isolation to limit the spread of COVID-19. In addition to the pain of a pandemic, many have had to cancel or modify meaningful events like weddings, funerals, or graduations. Besides those important life milestones, the coronavirus has even disrupted our daily routines, forcing us away from social spaces, work, and hobbies. Many of you may be focusing on the global effect of COVID-19, measuring the economic impact and calculating the best approach for your financial strategy. However, here at Score Priority, we’d like to take a moment to recognize the impact the pandemic has had on you, personally. We’ve compiled a few recommendations to move forward even if you may feel trapped in quarantine. Don’t worry. This, too, shall pass. STRUCTURE A ROUTINE Without the demand to commute to work, pick up kids from school, or go to the gym, you might be tempted to sleep late or skip your normal mealtimes. However, maintaining something close to your normal routine can alleviate the upheaval. By exercising, eating meals, and spending quality time with family at the same time every day, adjusting to the new normal might not feel as strange. On the other hand, as most people find they have more free time during social distancing, they might feel guilty about not getting to the hobbies or chores they always mean to do. Now that there are fewer excuses to reorganize the kitchen or finish writing that book, people may feel anxious about not completing those goals. Instead, build specific tasks into your daily or weekly routine to accomplish them. Prioritizing your activities can actually improve your mood. Psychologists call this behavioral activation, and it can reduce depression. GET SOME SLEEP Don’t forget to schedule regular hours for sleep, too. A healthy amount of sleep each night helps with stress, mood, cognitive function, and a number of other physical benefits. Rather than sleeping in and staying up later than you would under normal circumstances, aim to be consistent with your sleep schedule. Practice good “sleep hygiene” by establishing a relaxing nighttime routine, such as dimming the lights or avoiding caffeine before bed. Unfortunately, many people may be struggling with falling asleep lately as anxious thoughts keep them awake. For this reason, managing that stress can help bring some welcome rest. Whether they’re familiar activities that bring you peace or new strategies to relieve stress, try to find the activities that work best for you. For example, meditating, writing in a journal, or going for a walk are all proven methods for alleviating tension. STAY SOCIAL “Social distancing” doesn’t mean removing yourself from all social contact. While you may not have access to “water cooler chat” in your office, catching up with friends and family via technology can help minimize the feeling of isolation. Set up a video call, text often, and call someone you haven’t seen in a while. Chances are, your loved ones are craving social connection just as much as you are. Now is the perfect time to reconnect. BUILD AN EXERCISE ROUTINE The widespread closure of gyms, exercise classes, and recreation centers has deprived many people of their favorite workouts. Still, finding some moments of activity throughout the day is important both for your physical and mental health. Much of the fitness industry has already adapted to quarantine practices by holding modified exercise classes online, which means there are plenty of online resources to help you get moving. Yet for those who are unable or have simply lost their motivation for high-intensity exercise, something as simple as going for a walk or actively cleaning the house can be effective. Any movement people can do during isolation is healthy. Forgiving yourself for not meeting your usual fitness goals in this unusual situation is healthy, too. FORGIVE YOURSELF This can feel like a challenging period, and it’s okay to admit to yourself if you’re feeling the strain. You may not be able to work, or if you are, you may notice a dip in your productivity. You may also notice added challenges with being healthy, staying within your financial budget, or remaining optimistic. These feelings are normal. Adjusting to a new lifestyle is strenuous and it can take some time. Allow yourself to process any frustrations or grief you may be feeling, and remember to give yourself permission for self-care. Best regards, Tony HuckChief Executive Officer, Score PriorityToll-Free + 1-855-274-4934Domestic + 1-646-558-3232info@scorepriority.comImage Credit: Pat Huck