APRIL 2020 GOALS

I usually get excited when I reflect on my goals and start brainstorming what I want to achieve for the next month. However, with everything that’s been going on, it’s difficult to plan since there’s so much uncertainty that surrounds our future. As always, I try to adopt a positive mindset because that’s the only thing that’s really getting me through this rough patch. I am trying to look at the bright side and utilize this time to focus on other things that I had been putting on the back burner.

It saddens me a little to know that the goals I’ve set for myself for the past month could not be achieved due to circumstances beyond my control. My priorities showed me where my mind was at 30 days ago and it’s overwhelming to know that our world did a 180. Last month, I wanted to wake up on the weekdays before 7 am, but that clearly didn’t happen after the first week of March. I actually have been sleeping later and thus waking up later. I think it’s important to know that your routine and goals can change accordingly to external factors and that’s okay. I also wanted to immerse myself in NYC events and host a get together at my place, but with social distancing put in place, that was impossible. I understand the need for safety and I respect it so I am not at all bitter about not achieving those goals. I did however do my taxes so that’s something I am happy to be able to check off.

For this month, I am focusing on goals that I can realistically achieve by staying home and being in quarantine. Most of them relate to my tips on how to be productive during this time.

1. Continue taking classes online: As I mentioned in my previous post, I am taking online courses from Ivy Leagues and they are all free! The classes range from 4-6 weeks so the time frame is perfect as it will bleed into April and keep me busy and proactive. In addition, I am taking at least 25 minutes of Spanish lessons on Duolingo. These courses take a minimum of 2 hours from my schedule and they really make me feel like I am using this time wisely!

2. Get creative with content: I am not going to be hard on myself for posting less on social media, but I am challenging myself to get more creative with my content. I am lucky enough to have a building with amenities including a large lobby and a rooftop. They can be used for different backgrounds and I want to start experimenting more with that. And of course, I want to also see how I can use my apartment for content as well.

3. Stick with workout routine: Fitness and wellness is a huge part of my life so I don’t think this goal will be difficult to achieve but I am going to try and be even more intentional with my workouts considering I am home pretty much 24/7. Moving our bodies is important and even though it’s harder at home, I have converted my living room to a space where I can move freely. The best part is that there are so many companies offering live workout streams so there’s no reason not to use this time and be active! On the side, I am also trying to work on my handstand and I would love to improve on it by the end of April.

4. Think outside the box: It’s easy for us to be glued to the news but during this time, I want to think outside the box and see how I can connect with friends and do something special for them. Some ideas I have are to write hand written cards/ letters and mail them. I can also make bracelets or do some origami. These side projects will satisfy the creative in me and I also think they will mean a lot to my friends!

Although I am not necessarily looking forward to the next 30 days, I am trying to look at the bright side and you all should too. I think journaling and writing down what you want to do next month will be a good way to take the focus from what’s happening and channel it inwards. I am wishing you a healthy and safe month ahead and let’s all take it day by day.