College & COVID-19: Pro Tips, continued

This is part 2 of the tips shared by our FAU Thrive student interns for ways of finding productivity, wellness, and balance during a global pandemic. Not an easy feat—but they, and you, are up for the challenge!

 

1. Focus on Gratitude

By Shanneil Blackwood, FAU Sophomore

Living a quarantined lifestyle is something many of us are not accustomed to and since the COVID-19 outbreak, many of us have been feeling down and unsure of what is coming next. While the situation continues to unfold, I urge everyone to take this time to focus on the positive aspects of their lives; whether it be time with loved ones, time to start a new hobby or just free time to relax, I am sure there is something everyone can be grateful for. If you do not think that is the case for you, then make something to be grateful for. For me, I have made an extra effort to be grateful for more time with my family; I work full time as well as have a full time class load so not having to travel for school and getting to work from home has allowed me to spend more quality time with family. But, we all know that sometimes a little alone time is needed  to refocus our thoughts and energies so during those times I like developing a game plan for experiences I want to have after the quarantine such as places I want to travel and activities I want to try. Stopping the outbreak may not be within our authority but our happiness is within our control so seize this unique time and opportunity to self-reflect and self-improve.

2. Build an Oasis for Work

By Mariana Lopes, FAU Senior

One thing that has helped me cope during these difficult and trying times is identifying what I can and cannot control. You can’t control what other people do, but you can control your own actions. Recognizing what you’re not in control of can lift several heavy burdens you didn’t even realize you were carrying! One way in which I have found control in the midst of the chaos is by creating my own space. I set up a desk where I only do work—instead of having one space to work, eat, watch Netflix, etc. It helps to have a space designated for productivity, as you’ll associate it with getting work done! Pro tip for anyone who has had family/roommates/friends barge into your space when you're busy: put a sign on the door. It could say "do not disturb," "currently working," etc. Whatever sounds like you and will make them get the hint.

 

3. Take Time for Self-Improvement

By Jason Baluja, FAU Senior

Between classes, club meetings, work meetings, volunteering, and social events I rarely found myself with both the time and energy to work on a project that I had been wanting to work on for a while, me. That is why as soon as everything started getting canceled, social distancing became more popular, and holes in my schedule began appearing, I realized that this quarantine provided the perfect opportunity to focus on myself. I reflected and thought of the things I have wanted to do for myself that I could not before. Maybe you want to meditate more, read more books, learn more about nutrition to eat healthier, try out new hairstyles, or become a better artist. For me, I wanted to become more fit so I dusted off my old bike to use for cardio and searched the internet for good at-home workouts in place of the gym. Most self-improvement projects take time and effort. This quarantine is giving you the time, you just need to put in the effort. Come out of this quarantine the better version of yourself that you have been wanting to become!