Although, it sure didn’t; feel like it when I was out on my daily walk this morning (it was about 30 degrees!). Even though the temperature didn’t feel like spring has arrived, many other things did. I heard some turkeys waking up and gobbling, the robins are singing and building their nests, plants are coming up, the grass is starting to get greener, and there is more daylight every day. Yes, spring is finally here.
This year, though, spring is a little different. A virus has come into the picture recently and sometimes it can be difficult to stay positive. Today, I want to share some tips on how you can stay positive in these trying times.
Since most of us are spending more time at home, we have to be creative in finding things to do. Here are some suggestions:
- Read a book. If you don’t have a book to read, download the Kindle App on your phone or computer. It is free and they have a ton of free books to choose from. Maybe you could find a book that tells about some trying situations and how people overcame those situations.
- Less screen time (unless you are reading an electronic book).
- Take up a hobby.
- Learn to cook, do laundry, other “adulting” activities.
- Exercise
- Keep up with friends and family via Zoom.
- Write letters, especially to older relatives and friends (or even strangers) who are in nursing homes or are unable to interact with others.
- Go outside. There are many activities that can be done outside now that the weather is nicer and where you can still maintain social distancing.
- Clean out your storage or clothes closet. I did this a few days ago and ended up with 2 trash bags full of unneeded things.
- Make a schedule. Sometimes it helps to make a schedule to set aside time for school work, exercise and outside time, chores, etc.
- Think about your future and what that looks like. Write down some goals and think about what you can do to reach those goals.
- Last but not least, keep working at reaching your post-secondary goals. Whether that means completing that FAFSA you have been putting off completing, applying for more scholarships, figuring out job shadows, keeping on top of college communications, etc.
If you have any questions about careers, college, or financial aid, remember ICAN is here to help you!
While none of us knows exactly what the future will bring, try to stay positive and enjoy the coming of spring. Before you know it, summer will be here!
John - Waterloo and Hiawatha Centers
