With all the social distancing and disruptions in our normal routines, it is hard to get motivated to be productive.  Erin Stern shares 6 ways to build some stability in your life.

We are all facing strange times. Isolation can have profound effects on us. Our routines have been turned upside down, and the future can seem uncertain. But we do not have to accept uncertainty - in fact, we can create stability for ourselves. With a little work, we can overcome these feelings and mold ourselves into the people we've always dreamed of becoming. Let's go over some tips for making this happen! 


 

1. Create a routine for yourself

It may be tempting to take it easy and sit in your PJs until 3pm, but you'll feel a lot better if you give yourself some structure. Set aside time to work out, work on specific projects, take online courses, and/or work on that project you might have been putting off. If you start your day with something productive, it will give you security, hope, and control over your life. 
 

2. Reassess your short-term fitness goals

Perhaps you want to gain muscle and lose fat, so your initial goal was to gain muscle and then shred. If you have limited equipment, you're better off working on a shred for a few weeks. If you want to improve endurance, work on core strength, increase single-arm or single-leg strength, these will all help you become a better athlete once the gyms reopen! 
 

3. Reinforce friendships and maintain connections

Facetime, Skype, and Zoom are great options for keeping in touch with people. Now, more than ever, our meaningful connections with people will help to feel less isolated and alone. We are all in this together. 
 

4. Avoid fake news and attention-grabbing headlines

Work diligently towards getting your info from credible sources. I like the YouTube channel MedCram, as they only disclose the facts, and talk about solutions. Work a little harder to find the truth and filter what goes into your mind. 
 

5. Be careful about scrolling through social media

If scrolling makes you feel better, go for it. If it's giving you anxiety or causing you stress, mute certain accounts or take a break from it. There is no doubt that we are in a serious situation but keeping a positive perspective can help with seeing the positive aspects and outcomes. 
 

6. Practice self-care.

This is anything from taking a fizzy bubble bath to a DIY face mask. It's important to take 20-60 minutes per day taking care of yourself. Choose an activity that makes you feel good, and helps you relax. Little things go a long way! 
 

Remember, you are not alone. You are in full control. Choose to see the positives - the brain is a muscle that needs work, just like all the other muscles :) Stay safe. Stay strong!

  Erin Stern, 2x Ms. Figure Olympia | TEAM PEAK athlete