Guide to a Successful Quarantine

Well, here we are… in a situation that most of us didn't think would happen. With modern technologies, it was hard to imagine a virus like COVID-19 taking over the world. Before I get into how to stay motivated and successful during quarantine, I just want to share my condolences with anyone who has lost a loved one. Also, I hope everyone is staying as safe and healthy as possible during this time.

Now, let's get to it. For me, it is hard to stay motivated sometimes. Here are some tips and strategies I have developed over the past few months in quarantine.

1. Create a calendar:

A calendar, planner, or checklists are perfect ways to keep track of school work, regular work, and personal chores. It has been difficult for me to stay organized with online classes, so I have been making weekly checklists for my assignments. Also, here is a calendar I made in photoshop that I use to keep track of self care ideas.

2. Learn something new:

If you are like me, you have probably joined the Tiktok trend, and are making silly videos that you lowkey want to go viral. I am not saying that is a wrong way to quarantine, but there are so many fun things you can learn instead! During this quarantine, I have learned how to advance my edits for my photography, and become more advanced with digital editing in general. Also, I have been learning new hairstyles and makeup looks. Randomly, I am also now ordained in all 50 states making it legal for me to officiate weddings. Cool stuff!

3. Random music shuffle workout:

My sisters and I have been doing Zumba style workouts 6 nights a week before bed. This is a perfect way to keep your body moving and incorporate workouts into your daily routine. I turn my music on shuffle for a fun mix of songs. I have had the same itunes account since for at least seven years so sometimes old bangers come on-- which makes me so excited to dance and workout. Along with muscle building and cardio, we cool down our routine with a quick stretch. I now almost have all three of my splits again-- I honestly might be more flexible now, than in my final years of gymnastics.

4. Organize your room:

I spent a few days redoing my closet and room by moving all the furniture around and completely rearranging the pictures on the wall. 

5. Take pictures:

I know I am not the only one who loves to take photos. Whether it is a self portrait shoot, or a facetime shoot with your friend. Taking pictures is a great way to social distance-- and keep a popping Instagram feed!

6. Go for a drive:

Although you are supposed to be inside, as long as you are not interacting with other people, or getting out of the car, you are fine. So roll up the windows, lock the doors, and go for a local road trip! The weather is getting nice in most places. Going on little road trips can help you clear your mind--it is nice to "get out" and not be trapped in your house.

7. Write a letter to your future self:

There is a website where you can write a letter to your future self. I am going to write one for senior year me because I am almost finished my first year of college. 

Here is the link:  https://www.futureme.org

8. Journaling: 

Every now and then I write in my diary that I keep in a private note on my phone, but lately I have been attempting to be more consistent with it. Ultimately, this world wide lockdown is history, so it will be interesting to look back and see how I was feeling during this time.

9. Zoom parties:

I honestly despise Zoom for classroom instruction. I am not sure if it is the constant anxiety I have that my wifi is going to glitch, or just the fact that I will be stared at by a strangers in my class every time I talk, but zoom with friends is not too bad. My friends and I like to zoom and share our screens with each other. Then we youtube videos or Netflix together just like we used to in person. 

10. Get rest:

Although it is very tempting to stay up all night, staying on a regular sleep schedule will help you have more productive days and ultimately help you sustain your mental and physical health. 

Obviously, there are more ideal situations in life, and several people are facing devastating losses. These suggestions are just some ways my family and I have attempted to tackle this quarantine. I think there can be positive things in all situations-- remember, everything happens for a reason. Use this time to enjoy the presence of your family, and get to know each other better. 

Thanks for reading!

-Lex

Ps. follow my tiktok @lexandertholl

initially published: May 13, 2020

edited: January 5, 2020