There’s no doubt that 2020 was a stressful year, what with the pandemic and the subsequent shutdowns, social isolation and economic woes. If you’re like most Americans, it’s changed your life. PEW Research Center reveals that half of Americans believe their lives will be permanently changed by the pandemic and its aftereffects.
While that might sound scary, those changes don’t have to be bad. The following guide provides inspiration on how to handle life changes and transform those lemons into lemonade.
Build your own business.
If you find yourself out of work, you aren’t alone. According to the World Economic Forum, millions of Americans lost their jobs over the past couple of years. Seize the opportunity to explore online jobs you can do easily from home. WiFiTribe offers a list of options, from web development and design to online marketing.
If you are business savvy, an excellent way to improve your leadership and management skills is pursuing an online business degree. Not only will you gain general knowledge needed for operating a business large or small, you can hone your skills in marketing, accounting and finance. You’ll also gain transferable skills like problem-solving, writing and analytical skills and techniques.
Choosing to study and learn online for a business degree allows you to complete coursework at the time and place of your choosing, negating the need for in-person instruction. Online degrees are also much more affordable than those offered by traditional brick-and-mortar colleges. Plus, what would normally take four years for a bachelor’s can take as little as two years via online instruction, depending on the pace you choose. Be sure that the program you’re interested in is fully accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) — legit programs will have this important stamp of approval.
Transform your diet and exercise routine.
Although things are opening up, COVID-19 forced many people to shelter in place and spend more time at home. If you’re still affected by social isolation, instead of lamenting the fact that you can’t go to the gym or out to eat, take the time to upgrade your diet and exercise under your own roof. Home-cooking is more nutritious. These days, you can get the ingredients you need to cook delivered to your home.
You can further enhance your health long-term by ramping up your home workouts. This is an opportune time to invest in gym equipment. The Spruce offers innovative private gym ideas that are sure to inspire you. If you don’t want to spend a lot, some basic weights, stretching blocks, and a yoga mat are a cost-efficient start.
Transform your mindset.
Whether it was the pandemic or some other life event like an auto accident, it’s clear that many elements of modern life are simply beyond our control. While some parts of your life are on pause, other tasks shouldn’t wait. Doctor’s appointments are one example. If you’re due for a general checkup, dental cleaning, mole check, or similar preventive health screening, stick to your appointment.
Also, don’t put off mental healthcare. This is even more critical in the midst of pandemic stress. Plus, now is an ideal time to adjust your mindset and learn how to stop stressing about things beyond your control. As Psychology Today explains, identifying uncontrollable fears and countering them with positive affirmations can alleviate general stress.
Upgrade your space.
As you and your family spend more time at home, you may start to feel cooped up. Moving may be another life change that you shouldn’t put off. You can start researching options using online search engines like Redfin and Zillow. This is also a great way to check out modern home design trends and prices, giving you an idea of how much your dream house might cost.
There is no denying that we’re living in challenging times. However, it’s up to you how you receive those challenges. As the above guide shows, there are ways to take perceived negatives and transform them into positives. Try to find the silver lining and you might find that the pandemic will ultimately change your life for the better.
Article by Kim Thomas
Kim is on a mission to advocate for those suffering from chronic disease. She was inspired to create US Health Corps after her uncle was diagnosed with heart disease as a result of his lifelong struggle with obesity. When she is not writing about maintaining a healthy lifestyle, she can be found crafting, sewing and hiking with her husband and two sons.
