Feeling Down? Read this!

By Joy Kim

It has already been over 6 months since quarantine has started. As we stayed up late to celebrate new years, hoping for a better year, no one ever knew that we would be facing one of the biggest crises in history: Covid-19. All the negatives that come from it easily expose us to being vulnerable and downhearted. Therefore, it is important for us to stay optimistic, healthy and motivated. Here, we present 8 different ways to keep ourselves motivated! 

1. Keep informed.

Keep informed with updates about Covid-19 issues around the world, and listen to authorities for advice. This will help you to make wise decisions.

2. Set a new routine.

During quarantine, it is easy for us to slack off, which can eventually kill our motivation. A daily routine can help. Change things up, though options may seem limited, to make your day a bit more exciting. 

3. List your goals.

The feeling of accomplishment is an important factor to keep ourselves motivated. Make a list of goals for each day, and if possible, include some long-term goals to amplify your motivation.

4. Enhance your education.

Times like this give perfect opportunities for learning new skills, helping you maintain passion, bringing a new sense of confidence, and adding to your credentials.

5. Count your achievements.

When you feel disheartened, pause to give yourself the recognition and 

appreciation you deserve. Start with smaller achievements and build your way up. This can remind you what you are capable of and help you stay motivated.

6. Stay in touch with people.

Since it is difficult to meet people in real life, it is important to keep in contact with them online. This can boost your energy, motivation, and mental health. 

7. Move your body around.

Activity and exercise is a great way to hype yourself up. Moving your body can make you healthier, happier, energized, relaxed, sleep better, and sharpen your memory. 

8. Support and help one another.

Take this time to send a message of encouragement to those who are struggling, or to those who are helping to fight off Covid-19. Helping others can lighten up your day.

The Wesley Times interviewed Delaney Duffy, a junior at Wesley (currently in the US), to share some of her experiences and advice.

Q: How do you keep yourself motivated during quarantine?

A: When I’m studying or doing schoolwork, I try to take breaks every thirty minutes to an hour. This helps my brain reset and stay fresh. I get up and walk around a bit, play b-ball, go outside, read, make some drink, etc. It’s helpful to have something you can look forward to when doing work. I like to set rewards regularly for myself, which helps with my motivation. And also, I know this is weird, but Christmas music helps my brain stay joyful even when I’m stressed!

Q: What's your advice to people who want to keep themselves motivated during quarantine?

A: My advice is to surround yourself in a favorable environment. Staying motivated has a lot to do with our mindset and heart. For instance, I’ve found out that I work better in a brighter environment. But that’s what works for me, so find what works for you. Also, make sure to never stress yourself out. If you need a break, leave your work, and give yourself some space to relax. Another way to help is by finding different ways to make the activity you’re doing more fun. For example, you can put on some fun music while studying as long as you can focus. I’ve also found that the more colorful and neat the environment and my work is, the more my brain enjoys the work and can concentrate. Overall, try to make a happier environment for yourself!

Now that you have learned about different ways to keep yourselves motivated during quarantine, it is time for you to apply those to your lives. It might be challenging or a bit bothersome to do, but I promise that you will feel much better. Let’s motivate ourselves and one another to stay strong during this pandemic!