A few weeks ago I realized what it was: I didnt have anything to look forward to anymore.
The way things are now, the future is uncertain.
Weve lost our ability to plan our lives in big and little ways.
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Social isolation means there are no happy hours, no birthday parties, no movie dates on the horizon.
Events, vacations, career moves, life changes?
More or less on hold.
Limbo isnt exactly a place for ourmental healthto thrive.
Theyre not a replacement for the things we lost, but for now theyll have to do.
Put upcoming TV, movie, and book releases on your calendar.
The same goes for books you cant wait to read.
If you dont already have a list going, sites likeGoodreadshave plenty of user-generated lists of anticipated 2020 releases.
Schwab in my hands.
In fact, put any and all things on the calendar.
Im finding that sometimes all you better look forward to something is the reminder that its on the horizon.
Save certain treats or activities for special occasions.
Things have gotten a little lawless in this household.
My favorite fancycandleis now for Friday nights.
Breakfast for dinner is a Monday occasion.
Fancy cocktails are mostly for FaceTime dates so I dont have to drink alone.
Make your weekends feel like weekends.
If youre someone whos made the transition toworking from home, your work-life balance probably feels significantly off-kilter.
Which meansobviouslyyou wont be looking forward to them.
And I dont know about you, but I really miss looking forward to my weekends.
I have work PJs and lounge PJs.
I dont check my work email over the weekend.
Focus on somethingwaaaydown the line.
Not well at all.)
Instead, Im focusing on planning mydream vacation.
Thinking about travel might seem laughable given everything, but in fact, its just ridiculous enough to work.
Send emails or letters.
Im of the belief that we could always use more positive things in our inboxes anyway.
Order yourself something special (mindfully).
I wont lie, there are a few things to consider when it comes to leaning into onlineshoppingright now.
Ultimately, its a personal decision.
Were all just doing what we can to get by, you know?
I also have banned impulse purchases so I can pair fun things with necessary purchases when possible.
Pick up an engrossing video game, TV show, or book.
Sometimes it really is the little things.
But there are a ton of options out there.
A book with excellent cliff-hangers.
A binge-worthy TV show that always makes you want to click Next Episode.
Cultivating a sense of curiosity is fundamental to self-care.
Now more than ever, we need to feel excited to find out: Whats next?
