The COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t been easy on our health and wellbeing. The line between work and life is so blurry that work-life balance seems almost impossible. So here’s a pro tip to come out of this stronger: SELF —Search, Experiment, Learn and Fulfil.

Step 1: Search

Times have changed so we need to study up on the new normal solutions that can meet our needs.

These days, we can no longer travel freely to meet up with family and friends, nor simply head to any destination without fear of catching the virus. Even a quick outdoor workout may not even be possible for many of us! So how do we keep doing what we love without endangering ourselves?

It can be as simple as searching for alternatives. For instance, are there any household items that you can use in place of workout equipment at the gym? Items such as laundry detergent bottles do great as dumbbells, while backpacks can function as weighted vests.

Instead of going out to eat, why not order from your favorite dives using delivery apps? Or order groceries, and even other household items you would usually go to the mall for.

We’re no strangers to video conferencing for work, so why not use that same technology to socialize? There are many platforms you can look up and try for fun activities. 

Step 2: Experiment

Once you have a clear understanding of what you need or want to do, the next step is to experiment – the fun part!

Instagram is a gold mine for alternative workouts. Check out how you can use household items, furniture for small spaces to be healthier and fitter. Start out small so you don’t hurt yourself.

When it comes to delivery apps, service fees may vary, especially depending on your location. And with the ease of clicking, you may even spend more overall than when eating out! So try out different options to find out which works for you better. Or why not cook at home if you’re ordering groceries anyway? Try out different recipes or food hacks and have fun while you’re at it!

Once you have identified a number of video conferencing apps, try and see which one suits you and your loved ones best. Some apps are popular for its gamification and live-call filters, while some are designed to accommodate a large number of participants. And don’t be limited to conferencing apps! Try out distance learning apps that can surprisingly double as game apps, or even online versions of activities you used to do outdoors.

Step 3: Learn, unlearn, and relearn

In the process of executing, you might discover that some things don’t work as planned. For instance, the new normal of working from home gets in the way of your work and life balance, giving you less time to work on yourself. Unlearn habits and don’t be stuck on one routine if it’s not sustainable given this. Maybe a long workout session is not feasible, but a 10-minute routine between meetings is

You may also miss out on flash promotions, or have your order cancelled because of a lack of manpower during peak hours, but little did you know, you may have promo vouchers for off-peak hours or pre-orders that will save you more money. Remember, pre-pandemic norms may not be applicable anymore so it’s time to learn new hacks.

Next, in the process of giving and reassuring your loved ones, you might realize that they are not reciprocating. It could be because of fatigue, or that they are facing bigger challenges that you aren’t aware of. Learn to read the small cues or better yet, ask straight away so you can also adjust to their situation if needed.

The process of balancing work and family while having enough time for yourself is never easy, which is why you need to unlearn and relearn as you go. Identify what went wrong and find ways around it. 

Step 4: Fulfill

Once you reach this step, you will have already gone through the process of trial and error, and in turn, having a clear idea of the actions you should take to achieve and fulfill your health and wellbeing needs. From here, you need to consistently love and care for yourself by doing the things that truly work for you.

Make sure to always make time for yourself and continue searching for more ways to enrich your experience. With your health and wellbeing needs met, you will have more than what it takes to outdo this pandemic and come out stronger.