Personally, I have found that it is all too easy to fall into languorous habits when you don’t have daily commitments. However, breaking those habits, after a while, is a must. Getting up at a reasonable time and getting ready for each day can give a sense of purpose, and even accomplishment for some.  According to Lesley University, another way to stay on track is to stay organized. Try designated folders for each class and a place for old assignments. 

It may sound lame or even overkill, but scheduling out your weekly assignments and tasks is another great way to stay on track. I would suggest physically writing them down, but another great idea is adding a to-do list to your home screen. When school work piles up, it quickly seems more and more unlikely that I’ll even go near it. Try thinking about how you will feel tomorrow knowing what you got done the previous day.
By scheduling my work ahead of time I can break it up into manageable chunks that I feel comfortable with. It also helps me feel more motivated to get my assignments done. Make sure to keep track of time and be careful not to spend too much time doing one thing, work, or otherwise. Setting alarms, notifications, or having a friend text you at certain times of the day can make that much easier. This is a major step to accomplishing your daily goals and keeping up with your schedule. 

Throughout the past months, keeping somewhat of a daily routine has made things a lot easier for me. Typically I lead a very leisurely lifestyle, but giving myself some boundaries during quarantine has helped me to be productive without feeling so pressured. It took some time for me to get used to it, as well as develop a new circadian rhythm. But now, I feel in control of my day and I can allow myself to sleep in, take a day to myself, or even stray from my beloved schedule as much as I need, without guilt or shame.

In addition to the helpful techniques you can do inside your home, one thing to remember right now is to spend time outside. UNC Health says that being out in nature has been proven to reduce depression and anxiety. By planting a garden, or taking a daily walk, you’re doing yourself a huge favor. A perfect way to do that is social distancing with friends and family in a park or backyard. It’s crucial that we keep up with our loved ones and stay safe during a pandemic. So reach out and make plans if possible.

Despite all the talk about using your time wisely, remember that you are not your productivity. You are a person and you have the right to choose not to spend your time bothering yourself or anything else. The most important thing right now is to go easy on yourself. Nobody has the motivation to do everything right now. Know your limits and allow yourself time to be happy and okay. Even if your goals suffer, as a result, your physical and mental health comes first. With that being said, I hope these tips help you as much as they have me, not just now, but for a long time.