The Hampton Script

Kennedy P. Buck- Staff Writer

The COVID-19 pandemic has forced us to live inside and some have had to relocate. Some people have lost family members and friends while others lost hope. African Americans have witnessed a lot of black men and women being killed by the police. The result of the sadness and anger being felt swept the country leading to protest and riots. This is a lot to take in as a people, but especially as a nation. To make matters worse, we all must deal with this in isolation.

Even though being in isolation can be incredibly boring, this is the perfect time to try new things. Interested in picking up a new hobby? Wanted to create that business? This is the time for all those things. Take this time of doubt and turn it into motivation and make all your dreams into reality. There are a large variety of platforms that give how-to guides to create or start new projects. Platforms such as YouTube have thousands of videos ranging from how to sew and knit to how to create a four course meal.

To achieve these goals and help to continually boost your motivation, making a plan or step by step checklist is necessary. One of the best ways to do this is to create a SMART list. SMART meaning Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, and Timely. It’s also important to remember to start off small. For example, don’t set a goal such as getting a 4.0 if you don’t have smaller goals such as doing your homework and studying each week.

Another way to boost your motivation is to switch your routine. During the early days of the COVID outbreak, many sat at home or in their rooms and did nothing. By switching your routine and getting a change of scenery, it can influence you to tackle your goals of the day.

Last and by far most importantly, focus on self care. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) in a survey taken by 1,000 Americans, 51% admit to feeling burnt out. With everyday stressors and the current pandemic the world is in, self care is a priority in boosting your motivation in isolation. Self care should be something that’s relaxing to you and gives you the ability to let your body completely relax. By giving your body a chance to reset, it will be easier for you to motivate yourself in the upcoming days.

As author Zig Ziglar once said, “There is no elevator to success, only stairs.” Motivation does not come over night but in steps. By continuing to work on it and practicing self care, not only will your motivation increase but you’ll be practicing safe and healthy methods to do so. The state of isolation we are all currently in can harm anyone’s motivation but by practicing these tips and trying something new, you’ll be sure to increase your motivation in isolation.