Finding Routine During Covid-19

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Finding Routine During Covid-19

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Molly Collins

• PE Teacher & Head Softball Coach at Pennfield High School
• Coaches Club Ambassador and Featured Contributor 
• Check out Molly’s last article in this series of Covid 19 Content on Mindfulness 

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GIVE YOURSELF SOME SLACK…IT’S OKAY! 

During this time, there is no right or wrong; everyone’s situation is a little different. Currently, we are all in uncharted waters, but it doesn’t mean we have to put everything on hold. I’ll be the first to tell you how difficult it has been to stay in a routine.  Not being at my home, at my physical place of work, being around my peers/mentors, etc. it’s different. I have my days to put things on the back burner, and binge watch my shows, or just have no motivation; I am human. Yet, I have to have my overall mindset be how  instead of why.  Adapt, stay sharp, and excel. Whether you are a teacher, coach, or student looking to get into some sort of routine, here are a few things I am working on myself: 

TO DO LIST

A great place to start is with a daily and weekly routine with a “to-do list.” Sunday, I make sure my calendar is up to date with tasks, meetings, deadlines, etc.  Then before I go to bed, I write down my “to-do list” for the next day. If I write it down, the likelihood I will do it is much greater. It’s like positive self-talk…the more you say it more you will believe it.   Whether or not a “to-do list” is something you like, I suggest three daily activities that can help to keep sharp and to excel. Every day I add in activity, something to better myself mentally, and to something to laugh/socialize. It varies from day to day what those three things look like, but each day has them. Here are some of my daily go tos and other ideas for those three categories. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

ACTIVITY 

• Get outside -cold or sunshine! 
• Workout- long or short
• Go for a walk/take your dog on a walk- long, short, or trails
• Mobility or Yoga
• Projects around the house. 
• Play outside -playground or sport
• Mini breaks

SOMETHING TO BETTER YOURSELF MENTALLY DAILY

• Read 
• Podcasts
• Study (Yes, I’m studying.)
• Work
• Draw/Color
• Games/Puzzles/Cards

LAUGH/SOCIALIZE  

• Call/video with friends
• Watch a comedy -movie, tv show  or stand up
• Social distance with friends or families
• Reminisce with past photos, videos, or stories. 
• Jokes/Pranks

TIME MATRIX

I am currently reading a book called “Utility Player Life” by Marti Reed. Within her writing, she brings up what is called the Time Matrix, which was taught in another book I had read called “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey. The goal is to help structure your day through your priorities.  Think of your routine as a time matrix urgent to non-urgent/important and unimportant. We want to put our main focus on the Non-Urgent -Important section. Now, we all have things in our daily lives that take precedence over anything else, such as family emergencies or other pressing issues. Yet, no matter what your values, you need to prioritize your everyday routines. Take a look at what really matters and how you can use your time most efficiently. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”8891″ img_size=”large”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

GET COMFORTABLE BEING UNCOMFORTABLE

On days I know I am aiming to get a good amount of work done or need tobe focused for an extended period, I try to move or do a quick workout in the morning. Do I want to workout after I stay up until 1 AM watching Netflix? No. But it helps to get me started with energy and a clear mind.  It will be worth it to get that workout in. It will be worth it to have a clear, sharp mind to attack whatever is thrown at you next.  After my workout, I continue with my day and put the most pressing and largest tasks first. But I must make sure I eliminate distractions such as social media, Netflix, and for me, I need a clean space.  Get comfortable with being uncomfortable! It is going to be uncomfortable at times, not answering that text or email, and putting the main focus on the task at hand, but it will be worth it. From your morning workout, to a productive day, you will feel accomplished throughout! [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_section][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]

Want to see how teachers and coaches are using PLT4M to help student’s with their daily fitness routines?

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IT’S IRONIC

I think we can all agree that during the last two months, it has been challenging to hold off negative feelings. The purpose of a routine is to create less distraction and anxiety. It is ironic because activity is a must in a routine. After all, exercise improves mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and negative mood. It takes practice, and some days will be better than others. But do not let yourself give in to the negative; keep pushing forward.  Whether you are a teacher, coach, or student, I hope you found something to try. Remember, there is no right or wrong. Trial and error is the best teacher for good, but only if you continue to try![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]