If you think at some point this Summer life is going to return to normal, well that might be a pipe dream. The coronavirus still rages on and large gatherings aren't even a possibility until at least this Fall.
I know we all have the most extreme form of cabin fever, which is why the Summer of 2020 will push all of our willpowers to the limit.
Having willpower is a valuable skill. Frankly it's overlooked. Having the mental strength to contain impulses and control your actions is a skill only the successful contain.
Normally, life constantly presents you with opportunities to strengthen your willpower. This virus, however, is a test on steroids.
Let's start with willpower over feeling trapped. I totally understand the mental frustration over not being able to travel and constantly seeing empty streets and business buildings. However, if you can't find the willpower to restrain the desire to live like it's February, all you are doing is further risking the spread of this virus. I know it's been two months, and it probably will be two more, but don't let time weaken your mental strength. Try apps like Headspace or talk to old friends to clear your mind.
Next is financial willpower. Thousands of people right now find themselves out of work. If you are lucky enough to still be employed, your hours could've been reduced, or you were forced to take a pay cut. Any way you slice it, this virus has forced us all to maintain willpower over our "Keeping Up with the Joneses" lifestyle. We can no longer purchase the latest tech or get a $7 cup of coffee each morning. In order to outlast this pandemic, you need to find a mindset that saves money by cutting back to ensure financial stability. It's not easy, in any way, shape, or form, but it's necessary. Companies like Amazon are tempting to charge up your credit card with due to their fast shipping and thousands of products, but you need to pull back those desires.
Finally, emotional willpower will be the hardest for sure. There have been so many nights I want to panic because I've seen this virus steal so many innocent, incredible lives, including my own grandmother. It's not fair! But I would only amplify the stress and fear to those closest to me if I let my emotions get the best of me each and every day. I'm not saying you shouldn't express your emotions, but sort out in your mind the best times and people in your life to vent to. Perhaps even try a virtual therapy session. This is unchartered territory for all of us, and if we let fear of this virus control how we feel for six months straight, then you can bet your life will be filled with endless "should haves".
No, you don't have to believe me. No, I'm not licensed to give this type of advice, and yes, I'm only 20 years old. I'm simply speaking my mind to hopefully inspire someone out there who just wants to be a better person. With so much time being spent at home now, odds are you're going to be looking into the mirror quite a bit. So, ask yourself, do you like the reflection?
