M: EVER since the community quarantine was declared, we stayed home. I went out a handful of times to go to the office but mostly stayed home to be with the kids. Being stuck at home can bring about cabin fever but we have come up with a routine so we have things to do... and so that the children don’t drive me crazy. Every morning, we go out to have at least 15 minutes of Mr. Sun. The kids, hubby and I are forced to play badminton, basketball, biking—the kids practiced their putting. After bath and breakfast, they fix their beds and clean up the room before I let them loose for the activities they want to do: Reading, crafts, playing video games and watching TV. What’s your tip for those who are at a loss on what to do while on quarantine, DJ?
DJ: In the midst of the pandemic, a lot of us are now working from home. Thus, we’re confronted with a new reality of working within the confines of our pad, boarding house or dorm for the first time, full-time. It’s sudden too! And looks like it’s going to extend for at least a month. My suggestion? Build a regular schedule and stick to it. I learned this when I did not have a job for a month. Decide when you sit down at a desk to work and when to rest or do recreational activities. And don’t do work in your pajamas. People see this as part of the perks of working from home but I see this as a bad strategy. Take a shower. Brush your teeth. No need to go all out but these simple acts signal your brain that it’s time to get things done. It decreases the likelihood of complacency and increases productivity.
M: I have seen posts of young people being bored, asking what Netflix movies to watch (I recommend “Crash Landing On You”), doing TikTok and posting about food. May I suggest we use this time to be more productive? Personally, I am a firm believer that cleanliness is next to godliness. Now is the best time to clean, clean, clean. After all, we are always told to wash our hands, sanitize and disinfect. Next to cleaning, I advocate prayer and scripture time. Instead of just scrolling through Facebook and Instagram, why not open the Bible? While our faith might be tested at this time, we have to strengthen it by abiding in hope and love.
DJ: It’s also helpful to share some ground rules with the family and those you live with. Just because you’re home doesn’t mean anyone can just pull you out and put you back in with every beck and call. Establish boundaries. Working on the same schedule with your workmates is another good idea. Treat yourself like an employee. While Covid-19 keeps us indoors, the world does not stop revolving. This means there are still tasks that need to be completed. Focus remains to be essential.
M: Being alone and spending time alone does not mean that one is lonely. Make every moment count even if we are far apart from our family, friends and loved ones. Communicate with them. Send a message to frontliners to show that you care and honor their sacrifice. Donate. Try making face masks. Even if we are stuck at home, let us be grateful especially to those who have to go out to serve, protect and secure us.
DJ: And just as I suggested to start the day with a routine, it’s also cool to create a habit to signal the brain that it’s time to transition back to your personal life. Have playtime with a pet or spend time with a loved one. Do yoga. Or just simply shut off the computer. Whatever it is, do it consistently. Stay in touch with other people. Organize online hangouts for example. Call a friend or loved one. Reach out to others. While the world around us is freaking out at times, it’s always awesome to know that you are never alone.