A Guide to a Covid-Friendly Routine!

By Margo Levitan

As we reach the one year anniversary of “Zoom” University, it’s important to remember what it was during in-person classes that motivated us. While online lectures allow for enormous flexibility of where to learn and on what terms, there’s something to be said about the in-person schedule and structure that McGill imposed. Speed walking to packed classes in Leacock, late-night study sessions at McLennan, and everything in between has definitely been something we have all missed. However, one of the biggest differences is the lack of a forced routine.

We now have uploaded lectures available to watch at any time, and many of us have fallen victim to an endless procrastination cycle that convinces us it’s okay to miss yet another lecture that we will “for sure” catch up on later. Going to sleep at 3 am, waking up at 11 and catching up on a semester’s worth of French in one month is totally normal (at least that’s what I tell myself).

All jokes aside, with online school we get a unique opportunity to create a routine that works best for us. There’s not a “one size fits” all, but routines allow us to regain control, lower our stress, and be the most productive we can be. Here’s a snippet of my ideal routine, but feel free to make your own list! The most important thing is not the specific timing or actions on the list, just the fact that there are guidelines that you can hold yourself to!

1. Try to get up at a similar time every day.

While Zoom classes don’t take attendance, it’s important to get yourself out of bed at relatively the same time so the day has some structure. The time you choose is unique to you - just as long as you stay consistent.

2. Make your bed.

This task may seem silly, but this 30 second addition in the morning allows for a fresh start to the day and allows you to feel accomplished right when you wake up.

3. Get dressed.

As the CEO of only wearing sweats, the urge to only wear comfy clothing and turn off your camera is understandable. However, changing will make you feel better and help you stay away from bed when you’re supposed to be working.

4. Eat breakfast.

While cheesy, eating something in the morning helps give you a boost of energy that will make it easier to focus and get stuff done in the long run.

5. Make a To-Do List for the day.

Think of your to-do list as just putting pen to paper. Make sure to include water, snack, and break time into your daily routine, and check the tasks off as you do them.

6. Try to knock the hardest off your to-do list first.

Even though this step can feel overwhelming, focusing your energy towards starting the biggest task first will make you feel better in the long run and make it feel more manageable. It’s best to attack this goal while you still have all your energy!

7. Try to get out of the house at least once a day and go from there.

After a long day of work, even if you didn’t complete all you wanted to, make sure to get outside. It’s so important to take a walk and use that opportunity to clear your head and play your favorite music, take in the ~scenery~, and get some fresh air.

8. Talk to a friend.

Without in-person classes, we are all missing human interaction. Even if it’s just sending a funny Tik Tok or text about a TV show or even FaceTiming, try and stay connected with your loved ones.

9. Take some time for yourself.

Take an opportunity to check in with yourself once a day, be it through meditation, working out, or journaling. With everything being online, unplugging yourself and taking time to listen to your mind and body is crucial - no matter how cheesy it sounds.

10. Put your phone away 30 minutes before bedtime!

Before bed, take the time to unwind. You’ve had a long and productive day following your routine, and you deserve a break! Whether it’s through reading a favorite book, listening to calming music or even counting sheep, this is your time to refresh before the next day.

Overall, this is just my go-to routine - feel free to make your own! There’s no right way to do it: as long as you set your schedule and stick to it, you’re doing it right.

Image from https://www.readitforward.com/essay/article/self-care-books-you-should-read/