By There have been so many major life changes for Americans as a result of COVID-19, from job loss to relationship stress, and women have often had to do more than their share of work when it comes to adjusting. If you’re suffering from stress, anxiety, or depression even as we emerge from the pandemic, you’re not alone — and it may help to know that there are many things you can do to relieve those feelings. Let’s look at some ways you can take control of your life during such an uncertain time, presented by Muslim Girl.
Start your own business
If you’ve experienced a setback with your job due to the pandemic, consider starting your own business. You might turn a hobby — such as making jewelry or shopping for vintage clothing — into a successful career, or provide services such as accounting, consulting, or freelance writing.
Pursue an online degree
You may decide that you want to switch careers to one that benefits other people. With the pandemic, there has been an increase in demand for nurses and healthcare professionals. If this field has always appealed to you, there are ways you can earn your degree online. Online universities make it easier than ever to earn a degree in healthcare, all while completing coursework and assignments at home. This flexibility means you can still earn money from a full-time job while handling your degree in your spare time.
Make working from home easier
Whether you’re starting your own business or are adjusting to working remotely, it’s essential to find ways to make working from home easy for everyone, especially if you have children. It can be a difficult balancing act, but one simple thing you can do to make things run smoother is to give yourself office space to minimize distractions. It doesn’t have to be a separate room — simply having a place to keep all your things secure and organized can be greatly helpful. It’s also important to talk to your family about your schedule and what it means when you’re working — no interruptions unless there’s an emergency, for example.
Change your habits
Your habits and lifestyle can contribute greatly to your ability to adapt to change, so it’s a good idea to take a look at them and see if there’s room for change. While it’s wonderful to have a schedule, sometimes it helps to change things up a bit. For instance, you might benefit from adding meditation into your day during the time you’re usually scrolling through social media. If you rely on frozen meals to get you through a busy week, consider utilizing healthy meal prep so you only have to cook once on the day of your choice — this will allow you to work better options into the rotation. The changes you make don’t have to be major; introducing small, smart options into your day will boost your mood, your confidence, and your mental health.
The pandemic has taken a toll on many people — physically, mentally, and emotionally. It can be difficult to think about making changes when so many things have already been altered, but doing so can help you feel more in control. Look for resources that will help you take those steps without adding stress.