So, 2020 isn’t shaping up to be what I was expecting. I don’t think anyone planned on a global pandemic and being home 24/7. For me, this ordeal has meant moving home early and missing the last half of my senior year of college. It still doesn’t fully feel real, yet here we are. While there is a lot to grieve during this time, I also think we should look at the positives and remain hopeful during these difficult times. To maintain a happy attitude, I’ve been practicing the following…

Do Something Creative

Sneak peek of my Senior Pictures! Shop my outfit

Do something creative with your extra time!! I have loved editing pictures, planning out outfits (for pictures lets be honest I am not wearing anything fancy right now), and writing. Any time you can make something and focus on an activity you enjoy, I promise you will feel better! I absolutely love creating content and my creativity is what keeps me from going insane. As for inspiration, I’ve been watching a lot of TV and even some movies! I think if we seek the beauty in our day to day lives, it’ll come to us in abundance. If you make something, feel free to tag me!

Move Around

I may have recreated a look from Pretty Woman

I *may* have made a TikTok with this outfit but I tell you that app keeps me moving!! Come follow me here 😉I have noticed that dancing and singing around my room has also kept me sane. I recommend Abba, Queen, Cher, and Elton John. I can’t help rocking out to any of those artists! By dancing and getting my blood pumping, I am not only helping my cardiovascular health, but it’s just fun!! Back to TikTok, there are so many dances to learn and if you’re brave, post them! I love the challenge of a new dance and it’s always satisfying to perfect something new.

Cook or Bake

Fun Lauren fact: I love cooking!! I tried Hello Fresh earlier this year and now I feel like a certified ~pro~. If possible, try to cook with fresh produce and stick to healthier options. If not, just knowing that you created something (see above) that probably turned out great is an amazing feeling. For my sweet toothed people, I recommend baking something. I personally could go for some brownies but any dessert would do. Oftentimes baking is seen as a therapeutic practice which is great during these difficult times. Again, working through a project like a recipe keeps you moving and there is nothing better than a freshly baked dessert!

Go Outside

When I am writing this, the weather has been insane in my hometown. However, if you can head outside to your back yard or neighborhood, I say do it. I am not the most outdoorsy person but there is something soul-giving about fresh air. I personally like little walks (away from people!) and laying in the grass. Once the weather picks up, you can always do an activity outside like yoga or an art project. Remember, we are little plants that need the sun to fully grow.

FaceTime your People

Thank goodness for video calls!! This weekend, my friends and I are planning a big call where we are going to play card games and catch up on life. Since we are at “Zoom University” right now, we will probably have a zoom call and hang out. I also had a fun call with some family friends where we tried out Netflix party! I absolutely loved it!! When I was living alone for a few weeks, this was especially helpful. Human interaction in any way is truly a game changer.

Establish a Routine

While it can be hard to get out of pajama’s when all you do is sit in bed, there is something refreshing about getting dressed and putting some makeup on (ladies)/doing your hair. My new routine is waking up around 8:30-9, making my bed, getting ready, and tackling some of my projects for the day. I always keep my planner filled with what I need to do each week and I also plan out outfits. For me, dressing well (even if its leggings!) helps me feel better about myself. If you want to learn more, check out my Instagram!

I hope some of these tips help!! I know it’s a challenging time and if you need to cry, by all means cry. I just want to provide some ideas to make the dark times a little lighter. Let me know if you are taking any of these tips with you!

Best,

Lauren

How to Remain Positive During a Shelter in Place