How To Bounce Back After The Pandemic: A Guide For Millennials

Kathy Chapman 2m 567 #covid19

The views of this article are the perspective of the author and may not be reflective of Confessions of the Professions.

Today is the age of the millennial. A lot of us are wondering how on Earth we got to this stage. We’re seeing our parents retire, our friends having multiple children, some getting married and some finding themselves living their lives with their dream career. It is unfortunate then, that the pandemic hit when it did. Granted, there would never be a good time for something as catastrophic as this, but for it to happen when our generation is in its prime stings a little. Of course, everyone, no matter their generation, has been impacted by the coronavirus in some way. But as the ones taking the reigns of society, setting up businesses, becoming teachers, and joining law enforcement, how do we bounce back as life moves forward?

Getting And Staying Active
While this is easier said than done, it’s good to know that millennials are officially the fittest generation so far. Access to workout classes from home, and a better understanding of the links between mental and physical health has led us to a greater compulsion for fitness. Sadly, the pandemic has caused a much more sedentary lifestyle for lots of us. Working from home and physical distancing has put a lot of workout routines on the back foot. Find a way to motivate yourself—it is important to keep up those regular HIIT classes and yoga sessions to maintain both physical and mental wellness. Attend classes, either in person or online and get out for regular walks or runs to keep that positive mindset.

Assess, Re-evaluate, And Reset
Surviving has been the key focus for most people this past year and a half. Keeping work ticking along, paying rent, and making sure we eat have been the essential tasks. Unfortunately, this has led to us neglecting our goals or putting future plans on the back burner. As we begin to see the light at the end of the tunnel, it’s time to reignite those sparks. Re-evaluating our position in life and resetting our mindset is so important now. If you’re thinking that this seems like too much to handle, then don’t worry. This isn’t a task that needs to be done alone. Consider speaking to friends and family or even find a life coach to gently help you untangle your mind. Life coaches can help with many different aspects, from finding a career, to helping you to improve your mental health or nutrition.

Boost Your Mental Wellbeing
This has been a common theme in our society for a few years now. We are finally taking mental health seriously and that’s even spreading to our employers. Find yourself a good work-life balance where you can and make sure you’re not overdoing it. Assess whether you’re happy in your job and consider searching for alternatives if it’s making you unhappy—after all, we spend a majority of our lives at work, so you need to be enjoying it. Take time out for yourself to recenter and replenish your mental energy. If you’re struggling to maintain positive mental health, consider speaking to your doctor for advice and potential assistance if required. Getting your mind in order only serves to prepare you for other major steps. If you’re struggling with that aspect, it can spill over into the rest of your life, making things much more difficult.

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