As we do our part to stay home in our fight against COVID-19, many are restless and feeling the effects of isolation. Even the most positive people are challenged to stay upbeat through these trying times. It’s very easy to sink into a sad place if you’re not careful.
As someone who is very familiar with depression, I’ve learned a big help in the battle is continuous reflection on what is good and positive around me. Learning to be appreciative of what we have shifts our minds away from thinking about what is going wrong or lacking. Commitment to a positive and grateful mindset in all situations will change your life in a tremendous way. Do this by looking for the silver linings in dark times and staying grateful throughout and after the storm passes.
With that being said, let’s talk about some of the good I have been reflecting on in the midst of this global crisis.
- I am safe at home
Many are risking their lives everyday having to go to work. I am fortunate enough to be on a paid leave. I run my essential errands but other than that I am able to remain in the comfort of my home healthy and out of harm’s way. My heart goes out to the many frontline workers not blessed with the same luxury. I pray for their protection and am grateful for their service.
- My loved ones are safe
My kids are not in school and are safe at home with me. Family and loved ones are all safe and healthy. That is more than enough of a reason to be grateful. Need I say more!
- I’m saving money
Yes. The fixed expenses are still there. The water bill, electricity bill – everyone in the house got utilities and groceries expenses kicking it large. But with nowhere to go, there is nowhere to go — and spend money. No lunch dates with the girls, outings with the kids or last minute excursions. My credit card bills look amazing, 60% less of what they used to be. I was able to save so much on things like restaurants/take-out, shopping, gas and car insurance (after speaking to my insurance provider directly).
- Cooking is not a chore anymore.
As a chef, I’ve truly loved to cook but as a mom – well see here’s the thing. Chef’s are paid to cook food at people’s request, mom’s are not and most of the time it ends up on the floor because it was not served how child#2 wanted it. Throw in the compressed time allotted for dinner (6-7pm) and here we have the ultimate chef’s challenge. Cook a meal, within your budget, in the allotted amount of time, to the satisfaction of every family member, every night. Staying home has reunited me with my joy for cooking. I can make some of my favorite dishes that take up more time and prep work or experiment with creating new dishes.
- I get to spend more time with my family.
Life with 3 kids while working full-time is such a fast paced cycle of wake up, drop offs, work, pick ups, serve dinner, sleep and repeat. I felt like I barely got to see my kids. We spent 14 hours a day together but they would be sleeping for 11 of them. Now that we are all home together, I am grateful for a chance to truly get to know my kids. I’m amazed at the big personalities inside these little people.
- I’m taking time to take care of myself.
It is such a common thing for a parent to put their needs at the end. I would focus on work and the kids that what my body needed was usually the after thought when I had free time. Welp! I’ve learned free time is a luxury granted for when your kids are older and don’t need you. I got 3 under the age of 7 so that won’t be anytime soon for me. Smh. Yet, somehow, while being home, I have found time daily for exercise, relaxation and reflection. I feel less stressed and it shows.
- Moments are savoured
The scare of this pandemic got me to realize what is really important in life. Money isn’t as valuable as they sell it to be. Our health and loved ones are irreplaceable. More time should be spent doing the things we love and physical distance cannot stop our willingness to connect with others. I feel like the rush has subsided. The pace of life got slower and I can appreciate everything so much more than I used to. Going through the motions and getting the job done is not good enough anymore. I stop often to savour the moments and will continue to long after the threat of this virus is gone.