The COVID-19 outbreak is surely an experience going down in the history books. Government mandates to close businesses and social distance are largely unprecedented, leaving civilians fearful and confused as they remain in their homes. Whether the crisis de-escalates or not within the following weeks, one thing is certain: we should all stay home to play our part in slowing the spread of COVID-19. Although it is difficult being cooped up inside one space with the same individuals for seemingly weeks on end, we must realize our moral obligation to the health of the community.

When we are all quarantined in our homes, it is easy to let our self-images slip. Without being able to go into public, many of us do not feel a need to dress up for our days, only changing between day and night-time pajamas. We laze around, sitting on our devices for hours on end and even forgetting that we lead lives of our own, that we owe it to ourselves to bolster our confidence and make the most out of our situations.

If you have over-exhausted your options for entertainment and feel down about yourself, take some time to listen to your own needs. Start a new hobby that you have always wanted to try. Exercise. Video call your friends. Bake something elaborate or set aside some time for a spa night. Even easier, just get ready for your day: pick out an outfit, do your hair and makeup, and make yourself a nice breakfast. Doing small things like just taking care of yourself can feel strenuous when you feel down, and you should congratulate yourself when you complete even a tiny goal. Optimism and patience are the keys to getting through this unprecedented time, and you can come out of this quarantine feeling refreshed and proud of your tiny accomplishments.