How I’ve Adapted to Life in Quarantine

I’m watching the news in the living room and am looking through the different headlines today. On Friday March 13th, 2020, the world changed for all of us. Since that day we’ve had so many changes in life with social distancing rules and staying home. It feels like things went from zero to hundred last month. Remembering there is light in the tunnel and we’re all in this together has helped me cope with being at home all day. 

As the entire world faces an unusual public health emergency, we want to be open and creative about the challenges we face. Moreover, with the measures put in place, we should be as helpful as we can with our family, neighbours, and front-line workers. I remember thinking we will be back to school soon after March break but never realized how much of change it would cause to everyone. 

During this pandemic, I find myself spending more time with my family and loved ones. It feels different compared to an ordinary day, since everything is online, like school and work.

I find myself spending about two to three hours per day working on assignments and research topics for my courses. That being said, I experience less anxiety regarding my homework deadlines and feel more involved in learning. Many students find waking up early in the morning as the worst part of school but with online school you don’t have to follow a schedule. Being able to work with flexible times allows me to finish my school learning in a responsible and extensive manner. 

Naturally with this flexible time, I spend more time with my work, but I’ve also tried new activities in the house. I’ve finally learned how to cook, which was one of my biggest goals to achieve this summer. Cooking was never my thing and now I’m willing to try and learn more recipes. This is a great time for anyone to learn something they’ve been wanting to master all this time. 

Spending time in my house has really forced me to work on my personal goals and try new things. Even though there are restrictions, I can be creative and come out of my comfort zone. Learning something new is mentally stimulating and replaces feelings of boredom. I’m always trying to play an instrument or create artwork. I never feel the need to say I’m bored while I’m at home. 

Staying at home can feel foreign since we’re used to an active, on-the-go lifestyle. Easing into the adjustment can be done by structuring days with positive, productive goals and making time for social connection. I’ve found so many new life skills that I want to still learn and complete while I spend my time staying at home, like being better organized, taking on challenges, and learning to speak a new language. 

Looking at the positives of a difficult situation is better said than done, right? Staying in touch with friends and family across the world and finding new hobbies has been a couple of ways of how I’ve adapted to life in quarantine. So, on this beautiful spring day, find super-efficient ways to adapt to home confinement and share them with your friends and family. Finally, I would like to thank all front-line workers for their hard work and dedication. 

Stay safe, stay home, and I hope you are all well!