When your normal routines have shifted outside of your control, there’s one simple solution: create new ones. Now, when we can’t tell the difference between a Tuesday and a Sunday, routines can help you manage physical stress and emotional health. Start the day by leading with optimism, maintaining some structure and relying on those healthy habits:
Why it's important to wake up early.
Being an early riser means you get a head start on the day. Set an alarm. Make your bed. Hop in the shower. Have a routine? Stick with it. Routines are the foundation of our days. Maintaining your workweek routine takes the guesswork out of what’s ahead and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Work from Home attire.
Don’t just roll out of bed and throw on a t-shirt with some sweatpants. Actually getting dressed has been shown to improve confidence and energy in your day. Checking the box on small wins helps, too. For example, washing your face and using face moisturizer afterwards, putting on real pants, and having a morning coffee. You’ll see, it feels good.
How to Stay Focused Throughout The Day.
While working from home, learning a hobby, studying, or anything else you’re up to today -- focus. Try the Pomodoro Technique: Work for 25 minutes, break for 5. Do this 4 times and take a longer break of 15-30 minutes...and repeat.
Pro Tip: Hydrate. Drinking lots of water helps with mental clarity, and it’s a great way to avoid dehydrated skin. A good rule of thumb is ‘8x8’, which is one 8oz glass of water 8 times per day.
The importance of Maintaining a Schedule.
Stress throws your immune system out of a normal and healthy routine. That can cause acne-inducing bacteria and oils to flourish, irritate existing skin issues, and even causing new acne. Take time to reset by establishing good habits throughout the day. Exercise. Go for a walk. Wash your face at the same time each morning and evening.
First, tackle the tough stuff.
Science tells us that the first two hours after waking up is the most productive time to work. The least productive time? 3pm. So take care of what you need to in the mornings and jump right into work. Completing those more demanding to-do items will be a great morale boost for the rest of the day.
Take mental breaks.
Start doing a few mid-day pushups. Read a chapter of a book everyday. These self-improvements are important in times of crisis, as they’ll help you feel more centered and in control, while helping you feel a sense of ownership over your time.
Stay in Touch with Friends.
Don’t retreat. Social distancing does not mean distancing yourself socially. Keep tabs on you friends, family, loved ones, colleagues and co-workers. Broaden your support network, communicate and connect.
Power Down Your Devices Before Bed.
Turn off your electronic devices about an hour before you go to bed, and don’t switch them on until morning. This means pausing all the articles you were reading, posts you were liking, and all the shows you were watching. You’ll sleep much better.
#HuronOut
