Quarantine & Grow

23Mar 2020 by Chanee' R 4 Comments

As you all know- we’re in the middle of Pandemic 2020.

And honestly, it took a while for me to write an entire blog post about it because I didn’t know what to do or how to feel. Being a natural optimist, I wanted to be all don’t worry, be happy, but I let the media get to me, and for a second, I panicked.

I went from this massive to-do list to visiting the grocery twice in two days for things I didn’t need. Like that family size of Frosted Flakes that I finished by myself within a week…sigh!

While I have been posting to social media daily intending to lift spirits, including myself. I took time to start journaling and sharing prompts to take this time to reflect and plan and to help others do the same.

Last Monday evening, I crafted a message to subscribers to encourage and give tips on how to stay positive through this all. Those emails with tips lasted one day.

I wholeheartedly believe in the following saying:

When I write about various topics, I like to believe and suggest things that I have experience with, done extensive research, or interview someone with experience on a topic. If I don’t recommend or believe in something myself, I won’t post it. I practice giving my energy to things, time, people, and resources that make me and the world a better place.

On day four (at the time of the writing, day eight on the day posted), I finally believe what I’m speaking.

You’ll notice I have not referenced the name of the “thing” going around. I know it’s a real thing, and I’m staying informed and vigilant, but I refuse to live in fear, and I refuse to give this “thing” my energy and attention.

I suggest you take care of yourself and grow during this time of quarantine. How you grow depends on the goals you have for your life.

Growing could simply mean getting rest, cleaning your space, catching up on a book, movie, or series you’ve wanted to catch up on.

Growing could mean learning or mastering a craft, starting or enhancing a business, or learning something new.

Growing could mean showing up and doing the best you can because you are an essential employee.

Growing could mean you’re a part of the solution in your town to provide and serve meals and resources for the community.

Growing depends on you, and don’t let anyone make you feel bad about what you need to do to get through this or anything else.

We’re all on our own paths in life.

Below are a few resources. I found many of these by using a simple google search.

Be sure to check social media for local groups and organizations helping out in your area.

I’ve also included my favorite books and podcasts, some for learning, knowledge, or pure entertainment.

Check out my Instagram page to get reflective journal prompts to assist with self-care, reflection, and planning. I responded to my own prompt the other day, and it helped me identify a new goal in my teaching career. Prompts will be posted Monday-Friday during this time of staying home.

Whatever you choose to do, I urge you to take a break from the news meant to cause fear and panic. Trust, believe, pray, and meditate to your higher source. Know that better days are coming.

One of my favorite motivational speakers said the following about a week ago when we as a nation began to panic, and I’ve kept it with me during the entire week. It’s one of the things I spoke until I believed it, and I do believe it.