How some people get through uncertain times
Background: This opinion piece was written during the 2020 Covid-19 Global Pandemic. It reflects the author’s opinions on how best to get through uncertain times.
Have a purpose
The mind is a powerful thing. We have heard numerous accounts on how people get through solitary confinement (sometimes as long as 3 months) in political prisons or how people get through hard times.
What they have in common is that they have a purpose. Finally taking the time to figure out the math problem that you always wanted to solve during solitary confinement is one example of having a purpose in order to get through a difficult time.
Have mood boosters
Hopefully by the time we reach adulthood, we all know what makes us happy. Sometimes it is some kind of food, other times it is some sort of exercise. For me, some of the things that get me excited include dark chocolate, ice cream, cardio work out and a few other activities.
I think it is ok to indulge in healthy activities or somewhat healthy activities, such as eating chocolate and ice cream moderately. Everyone defines “moderately” differently, of course it depends on individuals’ situations. “Moderate” for me means 2 pieces of dark chocolate per day and eating ice cream 3 times a week
Think about what you want to do after the pandemic is over or what you have always wanted to do
I have asked several people what they would like to do after the pandemic is over. To my surprise, a lot of people have not thought about it. I think it is a good thought exercise to do. I understand some people are not planners, but deliberately thinking through what you have always wanted to do and make a plan about achieving it might be a constructive distraction during a difficult period.
Net net, I think there is no one silver bullet that will solve all of our problems during a pandemic, but here are some thought starters.
