Making sure that I have a routine that feels really good to me. That doesn’t mean it has to be the same thing every day or what I’ve always done in my life. Even just a new routine that I’m feeling nourished by has been really important. I have a routine that is non-negotiable and feels really good to me. I don’t have to rush into my day, I don’t have to be anxious about getting on the work channels right away. I’m going to make sure that I’m feeling really good before stepping into the momentum of the things that need to be done. Second to that is pouring into my relationships; really checking in. I’m usually not the best with that, so this has been important for me to do–it feels really good.
What was most important to you before you had to social distance?
What was important was that I was being as productive as possible. I would base my self worth on how productive I was and now, I’m really focused on the quality of how I’m living. It is a really scary time but I’ve noticed just simple changes like cooking for myself have brought me pleasure and joy. I took my relationships for granted–I let the business of my day kind of get the best of me. I’m just being a bit more mindful about [my relationships] and my part in them.
What’s the first thing you’ll do when this is over?
I want to have a big dinner party with my friends at my place. I never did that before this. I just want to cook for people, have everyone in one place, laugh, connect, and then figure out a trip to see my boyfriend.
What are you doing to pass the time?
I’ve been reading a lot more without pressure–I’m going to read as long as I want, and what I want. I’ve been singing a lot more; getting to know my voice, using my little loop pedal. It’s been fun to sing for the hell of it and not think about “I’m going to write music, I’m going to make music” which is what I want to do, but I do think on the way there, there has to be a lot of play, so this has afforded me that. I’ve been working, which is a blessing. I feel lucky that our work is transforming to accommodate the times and people are responding and being impacted by it.
What makes you happy right now?
Being able to go outside. I feel so lucky. I know it’s not that easy everywhere to be outside right now. Here in California, there’s enough space where we can take walks and not be near people. Listening to the birds and looking at the trees, and having a new appreciation. I’m such a nature girl, but I’m just seeing it with new eyes.
What would you tell yourself two months ago with the knowledge you have today?
Slowing down has the power to recalibrate you. As it relates to other people, you are your own gatekeeper. If you’re having conversations with people, or watching the news, or reading certain outlets that feel like they are adding to your anxiety, you can create a healthy boundary with that and still be informed.
