We take a lot of pride in being productive, in getting things done, and checking off our to-do list. Subconsciously, some of us tie our self-worth to our productivity, especially now that we have more time on our hands. With the need to always be productive, the pressure tends to create strong expectations about what should be accomplished. And if those expectations aren't met, it feels like a big hit on our self-esteem.

With quarantine in effect for these past few months, it’s been hard to not feel worn out, tired, and bored. Many of us have tried to make the most of this global crisis by creating new fitness goals, or learning a new skill. But without the excitement and stimulus of the world, it’s much easier to feel burned out. It's difficult to accept the idea that “if you don’t seize the day, it’s okay”. but remember that this current situation is difficult to process and cope through.

Here are some tips to guide you through accepting the current situation:

Remember to focus on the basics- the things that make you feel comfortable and secure. Do an activity that makes you feel grounded. Something you can return to when you feel lost. And allow yourself enough time to do it often.
Try to ignore any posts about productivity on social media right now. It is okay if you’re not as productive as usual. Instead, consider using this time to slow down and reflect. Learn to love and appreciate your own company. Focus on the present moment. Remind yourself that you are healthy. You are safe. Everything is okay.
Finally, know how to balance these two things. Remember, it’s okay to want to get something done, to finish a project, but you don’t need to have the pressure or stress to do that every day. The expectation of using every second to its fullest can be damaging to your mental health.
One last thing to consider is your negative feelings. It’s okay to not feel 100% yourself right now. You are grieving. You are grieving the world you knew before and now have lost. This is a change no one wanted, but now have to accept. We miss our normal routines, our social interactions, or the plans we made that now have to be cancelled. It’s okay to not be productive and check every item on your to-do list, because right now, your life has come at a standstill. It’s okay to feel lost, because no one is really feeling put together.
We often forget that we are living through a pandemic, as it is such a foreign concept to understand and process. But be forgiving to yourself during these different times, and remember that you are doing the best you can.

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