Are you having a difficult time staying connected with others during this awkward time of the pandemic? Here’s what I did to remedy this issue for myself.
Several months into this thing, I signed up for an exercise program that was way beyond my ability or even my interest. I’m not athletic, so competitive exercises were definitely not my thing. But because I wanted a challenge, I ended up joining a boot camp.
The funny part is, I didn’t realize it was a boot camp until session four or five when someone asked what the other options were for attending “the boot camp.” I had sworn I would never join such a group because there was no way I was going to flip a tire, run on pavement, or lift serious weights. But here I was—committed to this intense fitness program until the end of the year! But honestly, I’ve enjoyed it!
So, my advice to you is that during this time of the pandemic when things are still rather different from the norm, consider joining a group that challenges you and then modify the program to fit your ability and goals.
The first time my class was tested, I was able to do one sit-up before I realized it would hurt my lower back to do more. However, the last time tested I was able to do forty-eight in two minutes. That may not sound like a big deal to you, but it has challenged me every week throughout this COVID-19 period. I may still come in last compared to the younger folks, but I am satisfied.
Ideas for staying connected (and happier) during the pandemic:
- Challenge yourself with a group you might never have considered before (i.e., boot camp)
- Join or create a Zoom book group that meets monthly (one member chooses a book to present to the group, then another member takes the next month, and so on.)
- Zoom with a group of friends each week to stay in touch with them
(it’s free for the basic plan of 40-minute sessions!) - Sign up for a fun study course (i.e., work-study)
- Go for a drive to see Christmas lights in a nearby neighborhood
- Adopt a teenager through Compassion International® (teens are often forgotten)
- Go for a walk while listening to your favorite podcast (Tim Keller is my favorite!)
- Read a book next to a cozy fireplace