Adaptation (Finding Success in a New Reality)

Are you adapting? No one knows how long our lives will be affected by this virus, and no one knows what our lives will look like once the immediate threat of the virus has passed. Regardless of when we return to normalcy, as I am optimistic that we will, we should all be adapting. 

In order to adapt, it is necessary to first recognize that things are not normal. This is easy to see, and almost everyone would say this, but sometimes we do not effectively alter our behaviors to thrive in a new reality. Let me provide an example. 

I am a competitor and have been my entire life. I love competition and the thrill that it brings. One of my favorite routines at LMU is going to the beach on Friday afternoons with my roommates and playing beach volleyball. It clears my mind, and it is so fun to dive around the court, giving 100% effort to win the game. 

Now that I am back home, and stay-at-home orders have been issued, I am obviously unable to play beach volleyball. It is instinctual to complain about the current conditions and bemoan the fact that volleyball is gone for now. Although I will not be able to exactly replicate the feeling, I am attempting to find competition in new ways instead of losing that part of my life. I have started a new exercise routine that is challenging me every morning, and I am enjoying playing board games and card games with my family a few times a week. This combination is different than the typical ways that I enjoy competing, but it has definitely been rewarding. 

I would imagine that you are also prevented from doing some of your favorite things in the current circumstances. Instead of trying to learn to cope without them entirely, strive to find ways to replace them, at least temporarily. I know that this is a particularly hard time for extroverts, but I am confident that you can find ways to continue to stay engaged with your friends and family. Don't give up on what you brings you joy. Utilize your creativity, adapt to the environment, but never give up entirely on what brings you joy.

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