Hello world! Life in lockdown has been overwhelming, actually really frustrating. We are all hanging in there. As I sit at my desk gazing at the computer screen to write my 9th Sunday blog, I’m both numb and at peace. This year hasn’t been easy. I’ve lost 2 family members, my anxiety was at an all-time high with repeated episodes of depression, risk of losing my career, the constant fear of my parent’s and grandparents’ health, and lots more.
Like everyone else, I’m scared, and being isolated makes it worse. The world has changed in ways we can’t fathom. The life we had is dead and this new normal sucks. But whether we like it or not, our lives have changed and we need to adapt. Here are a few learnings/hacks which have helped me stay sane (well, most of the times).
- Letting go and embracing the uncertainty.
The truth is that we have never had control over anything in our lives. We tell ourselves fake stories to reassure and make life more predictable. “Don’t worry, everything is going to be fine.” – is a dangerous delusion.
But once we let go of our false notion of control, we are empowered to deal more effectively with every curveball that life throws.
- Be fine with imperfections.
It’s completely fine to eat quick meals and be in your pajamas all day.
It’s completely fine if you didn’t finish all of your work today.
It’s completely fine if you weren’t a great parent.
It’s completely fine if your house is not spotlessly clean.
You are not screwed up.
You are a **human being** trying to do your best with the limited energy you have in a day.
- Stop comparing your everyday struggles with someone’s social media highlights.
It’s not uncommon for us to question our life, achievements, appearance, financial status, etc by looking at a stranger’s social media reels. We know that these photos have gone through a rigorous filtering process and are the best aspects of their life. Humans long for connection and belonging, but if we keep comparing our average moments with the highlights of other people’s lives, it can quickly become toxic and cause anxiety.
- Focus on what truly matters
Most of us, keep drifting through life with our blinders on. Following the mad rat race and living on other’s expectations. We hold back on the lives we truly want and honor the people who we truly love because well “we’ve got time”. But what if there’s no tomorrow?
Thinking about what you want can be overwhelming. But better late than never. After all, we all get one precious life.
- Be kind to yourself
No matter what you do, things will go haywire occasionally. And there will be times when you are feeling low. But that’s what makes you human.
Keeping your body, soul, and emotions together is the most productive thing you can do in this quarantine. Cut yourself some slack. You’re allowed to feel sad, angry, and afraid. These are not normal times. Feel whatever it is you need to feel to get through this.
Would love to hear what hacks have worked for you.
Babita Chandak says
Yes so true Covid changed our life hacks. And the small steps you mentioned may help to live a bit to live our day to day life. Keep sharing u r thoughts love to read them.
vasudha says
Thanks, Mom.
Purnima Samson says
I look forward to ur writeup..fills me with peace.. can’t even find the right words to express…you r so young and yet….howww…i wish ur blog reaches far and wide..
I m just going with the flow..sort of blanking out and dealing with the present second.no expectations of the future or regrets fr the past..
Koyeli Roy Burnan says
So nicely written vasudha.. Love this.
vasudha says
Thanks, Koyeli. I’m so glad that you liked it.
vasudha says
Thank you for your kind words. I always look forward to reading your comments.
That’s awesome. Going with the flow and taking life as it comes is the most crucial yet the hardest thing to do these days.
Rashmi Talreja says
I feel as if u have written everyone’s fellings during this pandemic in d best possible way..i love ur writting..looking forward to read more from u
vasudha says
Thank you, Rashmi :). This makes me super happy.
Unknown says
You know what..it’s a mental game now..sooner we accept, better it is. Everyone is in same boat..Idea is to accept that God has given this situation so that we evolve from here.. please see better side please..we are educated, we can work, we have house to live.. family to talk…idea is to express and idea is to keep talking to people alot… that’s what I do..it’s been 5+ months and few more months like this.. embrace the situation with big heart and positivity.. lightened up your mind.. talk to people around you..
vasudha says
Couldn’t agree more.
Raman says
Vasudha, thanks for posting this. Wish you all the best. Stay calm. Difficulties test our courage, and more often than not shape us for the better. I am sure when you look back, you will see it positively. Following your helpful thoughts and learning. Thanks.
vasudha says
So true, Raman. COVID, in a way, is teaching us a life lesson on accepting uncertainty and giving up control.
Thank you for sharing your pearls of wisdom.
Parimala Hariprasad says
Exercise, meditation and getting away from social media has brought tremendously calming effect on me. If you want to stay in touch, pick up the phone!
COVID-19 is also a right time to choose who you keep away from, and stay surrounded by positive people in spirit, if not in person!
vasudha says
Doing the same plus daily journaling. Thank you, let’s speak soon.
Absolutely, the most important things in life are measured internally. COVID has been an eye-opener in some sorts.And so glad to have a friend like you, Parimala. Much love.