10 Ways To Stay Motivated During Quarantine

We’re all learning to live with a massive adjustment due to the coronavirus. Part of that is figuring out how to stay motivated during quarantine.

I cannot tell you how many friends, family members, and strangers I have seen on social media asking how to stay motivated during quarantine. And it doesn’t come as a shock.

When we are home, we settle into our comfort zone. After all, home is where we relax after work and on weekends. Even if you regularly work from home as I do, being home during all of your off-hours just hits a different way.

When your bed or couch is in sight, it is easy to melt into the cushions and get absorbed into a new TV series. And for the first few days, that may have felt like a much-needed break.

The thing is, too much lounging in the same location can feel depressing. Doing nothing puts us in a rut that can be hard to break out of. Therefore, everyone and their aunt is looking for ways to stay motivated during quarantine.

# Get outside

Fresh air really does change everything. It perks you up. It energizes you. Whether you go for a walk while remaining six feet away from others, do some gardening in your yard, or just open a window to let a breeze into your place, this can give you that push you need.

The power of fresh air shouldn’t be ignored or overlooked. I am not saying you should go for a run or plant a garden, but just sitting outside for a few minutes every day will boost your mood.

# Do what you normally do

If possible, stick to your normal routine. Wake up at the same time, make your bed, shower, even pack your lunch for work, even if you’re working from the kitchen table.

Just go through the motions of applying makeup, styling your hair or changing into actual clothes. It can remind your subconscious that there is work to do, and you are prepared to do it.

# Make a to-do list

I know it sounds cheesy, but to-do lists make such a difference in how accomplished you feel at the end of each day. I have been making to-do lists at least once a week for years. This not only reminds me to get certain tasks done but it feels great to check things off.

Put even small things on your list like changing a light bulb or replacing the batteries in the remote. You can even add things you normally do like showering or laundry to remind yourself that you’re getting more done than you think.

# Spruce up your space

It is spring after all. Spring cleaning doesn’t have to go out the window just because you can’t. Yes, that was a quarantine joke. Do everything from surface cleaning to scrubbing the floors and vacuuming under the couch will breathe life into your place.

Of course, we should be cleaning common places repeatedly anyway, like doorknobs, railings, and light switches, but going above and beyond will help you enjoy your space more. Instead of feeling trapped at home, sprucing things up by cleaning, organizing, and even rearranging can make you enjoy it more.

# Check in with friends and family

Although you may feel lonely, you are not alone. Everyone is going through this huge adjustment. Talking to friends and family about how you feel, and hearing from them can remind you that we are all still finding a new normal.

Also, checking in can help you feel motivated during quarantine so you have something to share. Without going out or interacting with others, topics of conversation are in short supply. If you get things done, you can fill your friends in on how you painted a feature wall with every random color of paint you had in your house.

# Do a group activity *if possible*

If you live with others, do something to help motivate you because now you have others relying on you. Play board games, create an obstacle course, or even join the rest of the world and film a TikTok dance.

Enjoy the company you do have! It is great for your mood and maintaining hope in such an uncertain time.

# Challenge yourself

If you are competitive by nature, this will be perfect for you. Challenge yourself to accomplish something each day or week. Cut a minute off of your run time or wake up 10 minutes earlier each day.

You can also do this with your friends or roommates. Text each other your week’s goal and check in and remind each other. This will help you stick to your goals. When you have accountability, you can’t think your way out of.

# Make plans

Obviously, you can’t go out to eat with friends, but you can have a virtual cocktail hour or even a video game party. Make plans for a group of friends to all log on to a video chat at the same time with their drink of choice and share your weekly gossip.

Having something to look forward to will help you stay motivated in quarantine. You’ll want to finish any tasks so you can relax with your friends.

# Acknowledge the small stuff

Instead of guilting yourself for not doing more, be proud of the small stuff. Washing your hair, heating up a frozen pizza, and finishing that three-hour movie may seem insignificant. Applaud yourself for even those things that will most boost your morale.

# Do something for others

If you can’t work up the strength or willpower to get motivated for yourself, do it for others. Find a simple sewing guide and learn how to sew masks for frontline workers. Start a Facebook group for anyone wanting to share positive news during this time.