Preparing for the year ahead during a pandemic comes with so many uncertainties. While there are some things we can be excited about, it’s difficult to not feel a little bit stressed out or even anxious about what lies ahead. Here’s how you can prepare for all of this.

Stick to the COVID-19 protocol

The pandemic has been really stressful, but it’s important to know that each of us can play our part in reducing the spread of COVID-19. By doing your part, you can protect yourself and the people around you.

Little things like wearing a face mask or covering when you’re not in your home, maintaining a distance of at least 1 meter between yourself when in public and avoiding crowded places and events may seem like small things, but they make a huge difference.

Remember that washing hands with soap and water is the best way to get rid of germs in most situations. If soap and water are not available, you can use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser that contains at least 70% alcohol. You can tell if the sanitiser contains at least 70% alcohol by looking at the product label.

Stay in the know

Make sure that you know what’s happening around you by staying up to date with any news about school, work and the pandemic. Staying in the know will help you make more informed decisions and help you avoid stress.

Gear up for the year

Planning ahead for school, lectures and/or work can help reduce anxiety. You can prepare by drawing up a schedule or routine and sticking to it. Proper planning allows you to get the most important things done first, like your assignments, exam prep and homework. When you follow a schedule, you can easily balance work/school and your personal life.

Practice self-care

It’s important to remember to take time to disconnect from life’s stressors and do some activities that are meaningful to you. Self-care can be anything from rest and relaxation, self-expression through art, maintaining important friendships, or doing activities like yoga and meditation. Taking care of yourself will help you keep a healthy mindset for success.

Have a positive mindset

If you didn’t achieve the goals you were hoping to, don’t put yourself down over it, Choma. After all, 2020 was a year of uncertainty, but there’s always another chance to improve yourself. Following these tips and having a positive mindset will ensure you are better prepared to tackle it this time round, so pick yourself up and try again.

Remember that not achieving your 2020 goals or receiving unsatisfactory matric/school results doesn’t mean you have a less promising future. Give yourself a pat on the back for conquering 2020. Set yourself up for success in 2021 by recognizing how being mentally prepared can help you live a more fulfilling life.

Remember, if you or a friend need advice or help, you can contact me here on Ask Choma, send me a Facebook Message, a Twitter DM, or a WhatsApp Message (071 172 3657)