How to: Stay positive in isolation

With the Government announcing at least three more weeks of social distancing measures, it’s normal to feel less positive than you usually do. If you’re in need of a boost, here’s some ideas on how to stay positive. 

1. Create a vision board 

Ever thought about learning to sketch or finishing that book? Now is a great opportunity to try those things you’ve always wanted to do but never quite got around to doing. Write down everything you’d like to achieve in this time and put it somewhere you will see every day. Make it colourful, add pictures, tick boxes – be creative. This will give you something to work towards and occupy your mind, pushing away those negative thoughts. 

2. Use online resources  

Websites like Young Minds offer great advice about dealing with lockdown. Covering everything from how to look after your mental health to coping with exams being cancelled. Reading their blogs is a good way to help you feel more positive and in control of how you deal with the situation. 

 3. Make someone’s day 

It’s widely known that when you make someone else feel good, you also feel good. At this time, it can seem more difficult to make someone’s day, but there are ways. If you’ve got paper and stamps, why not send someone a hand-written note or order fresh flowers? 

 4. De-clutter 

In the wise words of Marie Kondo, from Netflix’s ‘Tidying up with Marie Kondo’; “the best way to find out what we really need is to get rid of what we don’t”. Use this as an opportunity to get rid of things that don’t “spark joy”. While you can’t take your old things to the charity shop, try a clothes bin instead. Remember to wear protective clothing and always wash your hands. 

 5. Start journaling 

Writing down your thoughts and emotions can be a good way of putting things into perspective and feeling more positive. It’s also a great idea to try and stick to a routine as much as you can at the moment, which is why regularly writing in a journal can help to lift your mood. 

Remember, you are not alone in how you feel. For additional information and advice, visit YoungMinds.org.