It’s week 2 of writing about Corona. Last week, I wrote about what I’m doing during this strange time. Namely, keeping routines and making new ones, as much as possible. It’s a new normal. But, I keep circling back to this core question: how can I (and we as a society) keep going?
Staying in is a new normal, and I know I am not alone in this new practice. As an exercise junkie and artist, I have an urge to create, make, and move. These questions and answers below are how I keep going and stay motivated each day. If you need some motivation, consider asking yourself these questions.
What skills can I build?
At work, I am still making content and copy. But I am using this time to learn new videography skills, too. I have downloaded software to learn new animation techniques to build a video. I am also researching membership-based loyalty programs. Work is at home, so I am also learning about boundaries: can I leave work at work, even if the physical space is the same?
In my personal life, I am also continuing my newfound yoga habit. It’s an excellent way to stay rooted and thankful: my back supports me, so I need to stretch. If you’re feeling anxious, I recommend a yoga technique called Alternate Nostril Breathing. I am also using my soccer and dance background to learn kickboxing. Yes, in my living room. Both yoga and kickboxing release energy, and they are skills that will translate when this situation is over.
What habits or identities can I return to?
I’m so happy to be writing regularly once more! This blog is an extension of that joy. When I first published this blog, I hoped to write every week, and I kept at it for a few months. If this content is helpful to even one reader, it’s a habit worth keeping up. I’ve always pictured myself as a writer, so to keep this identity up, I must write for the reader and for myself.
In addition to yoga and kickboxing, I am returning to dance, through Strong by Zumba and a bit of ballet. Shall I become a Zumba teacher, as I once considered? Or should I be okay with the little moves I’ve picked up, the cardio I’ve maintained? I was a dancer for 15 years(!) and it’s hard to let this identity go. Maybe Zumba is enough. It’s hard to give up on identities, but perhaps these identities shift, as my body, routine, and motivations change.
Am I creating, consuming, or both?
I know my answer: both. My boyfriend and I watched all of season 3 of Ozark. Admittedly, I am a TV show monogamist and only watch one show at a time. But this Netflix show captivated me. It may appear each character is evil, when in reality, it is the interpersonal dynamics between groups in a pretty-as-a-picture setting that causes chaos. It’s nothing like my world.
But I am also creating. I have found my creative projects add a sense of progress and accomplishment to the day, in addition to work and workouts. I’m coloring an elephant, and I am mapping out a lettered painting to add to my gallery wall. I’m thinking of learning calligraphy for the painting or might use stencils. But, in all of this, I am using my resources first.
So, these 3 questions set my attention and motivation. What helps you keep going? Any new creative projects? How can I help keep you motivated? We’re all in this together. Share your thoughts with a comment!