The Covid-19 pandemic has changed almost the whole world’s daily routine. It’s safe to say the strange and unsettling circumstances can leave everyone feeling quite overwhelmed. Establishing a healthy balance of what works for you in your daily routine is essential in order to keep you productive and positive during yet another lockdown. Here are my top 5 easy habits that I have incorporated into my daily routine to help me stay on top of my work!
1- Wake up early
Yes, one of the main plus sides of lockdown is having a little extra time in bed every day, avoiding rush hour traffic and long commutes to and from college/work. However, studies have shown creativity levels are at their highest in the morning, whether you’re a morning person or not!
Waking up a little earlier than usuals gives you time to enjoy your morning coffee in peace, make yourself a nice breakfast to get the day started, get a workout in, or indulge in a luxurious skincare routine and warm shower to get you feeling fresh for the day ahead.
2- Write down everything you need to get done the night before
Having your tasks written down in front of you can make them a lot less daunting, sometimes the more we think about everything we need to get done the more intimidating they seem. Having a clear schedule of your day will help you from feeling overwhelmed, and have a clearer idea of what needs to get done.
Another good habit to form is getting your biggest task done first, like I said, creativity levels are at their highest in the morning, getting your biggest task done allows you to feel more accomplished and motivates you to continue your work.
3- Get dressed
When I say get dressed, I don’t necessarily mean put on your night out outfit to sit around at home, but try make a conscious effort to change out of your pyjamas.
Getting dressed in the morning allows you to feel fresh and prepared for the day, it signals the start of another productive day and will give your day a greater sense of purpose. As your environment isn't likely to be changing much and as days start to become more repetitive, getting dressed every morning is one of the only parts of a daily routine that can be maintained during these times. Don't underestimate the power of clothing when it come to making you feel ready for the day ahead.
**Make sure you are still comfortable though, the loungewear trend is here for a reason!!
4- Take breaks
Yes, breaks are allowed! Not even the most productive people can concentrate for a solid eight hours at a time, sometimes we fear taking breaks because we become so overwhelmed with the amount of work we have to do we don't think we have time for a break.
It is important to acknowledge the difference between taking a break and getting distracted, schedule breaks into your routine, even if it's just for a few minutes to recharge your batteries before your next task/class! If the breaks are scheduled and structured you're a lot less likely to end up scrolling through TikTok or Instagram for hours on end while still feeling as though you have had time to refresh.
(Think of the 10 minute breaks typically given halfway through and between lectures)
5- Get some fresh air
I’m sure everyone (myself included) has been guilty of staying indoors for days on end without even noticing, which is great for avoiding physical contact with people and slowing the spread of the virus, but not too good for your own sanity.
Getting out for your daily allocated exercise time is essential, not only for your physical health but your mental health too! Fresh air is a great way to wake you up and give you a refresh to help get motivated for work. Studies have shown that air ventilation is directly related to employee productivity, their ability to process information and the decision making process! Although dark winter months can be depressing, to say the least, Spring is on the way, temperatures are rising and days are slowly but surely getting longer again.
Set yourself a step count challenge to reach every day to keep you motivated to get out and get moving, take your dog for a walk, crack open your windows, or even just enjoy a coffee/lunch in the garden during a break.
Remember, what works for some may not work for all, so if these tips aren’t for you don’t worry we are all learning how to cope together!
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