This new world that we’re in as a result of COVID-19 is a lot to take in. On one hand, the lack of close, personal interaction is really wearing on people. Even those that label themselves a “homebody” or a “lone wolf” are seeking social interaction and human contact. On the other hand, you have people trapped in close proximity to one another within the confines of their quarantine, which is proving to be too much for many relationships to handle and the divorce rate is rising around the world. 

Things aren’t going to change overnight and this is the new normal for months to come… but on a more positive note, there are some “hacks” you can use to keep a healthy mindset in times like this, and I want to share those with you today: 

Change the Scenery

Human beings just aren’t wired to be confined to one space. I mean, this is why prison is so unappealing, among other reasons. As humans, we seek stimulation from the physical world and really suffer emotionally when we’re cut off from it. 

Depending on where you live, it may not be an option for you to go outside your home right now and this is in no way a recommendation to defy current restrictions. Please, follow the health guidelines in your local jurisdiction at all costs. If you can go outside, take a walk (keeping your social distance from anyone, of course), go for a bike ride, take a drive, or just sit on your front porch… if you’re fortunate enough to have one. Being outside boosts your energy, improves immunity and promotes a sense of well-being that just cannot be achieved indoors.

If you are confined to the indoors, then changing the scenery is a bit more challenging, but still a worthwhile endeavour for your sanity. Rearrange your furniture and decorations, look at photos, stare into a painting for a while (you can also paint something yourself), or try sitting in front of different windows throughout your house and taking in the scenery from each view point. 

Even while you might be getting things done and trying to live life as normal as possible, doing all of that in the same environment can be mentally taxing. So, make sure you try to move around and find different things to focus on outside of your immediate space.

Connect with Others

I’m not talking about commiserating on Facebook with your friends, or trying to deepen relationships within your own quarantined household. I’m talking about creating some real social diversity for yourself. This is important for your mental health for two reasons:

1. You don’t get tunnel vision by being exposed to the same opinions and perspectives over and over
2. You get outside of yourself by tapping into other’s unique situations

How do you create this kind of social diversity when you can’t leave your house? Get savvy with the technology that’s available! The internet is exploding with options like Zoom, Google Hangouts, Facebook Messenger, Facetime… there’s something free for everyone.

So, use those phone books, email accounts and social media contacts to find a few different people to connect with and start something regular with them. Get together virtually, work on something together, share accomplishments, talk about your feelings, send pictures, mail letters, support each other, share things that make you laugh. Mark Twain says it best, “When a man loves cats, I am his friend and comrade without further introduction.”

This is a great activity not only for your personal well-being, but also to sharpen your interpersonal relationship skills – which is of great benefit to your real estate business right now, and in the future! When will there ever be a better time to connect with your sphere, create referral systems, and setup your lead follow-up campaigns? The Service For Life!® newsletter marketing system is a great way to do ALL 3 things in one fell swoop – check it out!

Get Something Done

When there’s not a lot to do, and there’s nowhere to go, even the smallest accomplishment can bring you a sense of fulfillment. I’m sure you’ve got many big projects you could tackle around the house, but take it from an expert procrastinator – getting lots of little things done feels much more rewarding! 

Activities that create a physical difference in your environment like cleaning, organizing, fixing or building something, produce immediate satisfaction. Other small tasks that can be similarly satisfying include reading, learning, exercising, or getting started on a larger project. Every time you complete one of these little tasks, it gives your attitude and mental health a boost.

But don’t just apply this mentality to the small things – change your mindset about big projects too. Instead of tying a sense of accomplishment to completing the project, make every step along the way an accomplishment in itself. Break up your tasks into bite size pieces and reward yourself as you complete each one as you go.

Funny you should ask… yes – this too can be applied to your real estate business! There’s no time like the seemingly-endless present to think about the things you need to do for your business, and for your professional development that have fallen by the wayside. 

Sanity Check

We’re all in this together. I know you’ve heard this before, but it’s never been more true than it is right now. Take a little comfort in knowing that although things are incredibly tough right now, you’re not alone and we all share a common bond. Use this time that’s been bestowed upon you constructively, but most importantly be grateful for each day and stay hopeful for the future.