Pandemic Management

When COVID began, my normal life shifted quickly and I realized that I could not do many of the things I love the most. As devastated as I was, I processed the unfortunate outcomes and made smart choices by keeping my safety as a top priority. Going out of my apartment to get some fresh air daily was resourceful. Luckily, I stumbled upon other things that would make me joyful. 

• ZOOM – Learning a new, commonly-used method of seeing others face to face. On Zoom, I have attended a wedding, celebrated holidays with family, and socialized with friends. 

• GAMES – After the bowling alleys in New York were closed for over three months, I found a bowling center in Queens off the A train that met COVID regulations. I have been bowling since I was seven. I also play chess with my close friend and my brother on Game Pigeon. Those games strengthen my mentality. 

• CHAMPIONSHIPS – Because I was born in Los Angeles, I am a big fan of the Los Angeles Lakers and Los Angeles Dodgers. Watching the Lakers win in the Disney World Bubble and the Dodgers win at Globe Life Field in Arlington, Texas. It brought me to tears of pride. 

• BLOGGING – I established my Autism Journey and Worldwide Expeditions websites, where I am writing blogs about neurodiversity and my travels. More will come.  
• PODCASTS – I have been a guest on three podcasts relating to neurodiversity: Autism Knows No Borders (Episode 26), For All Abilities (Episode 43), Abilities in Motion (Episode 08). They are accessible on the media page. 
• WEIGHT LOSS – I did core, chest, and quad workouts in my apartment, plus cardio at the park. Looking at my soul in the mirror told me that I should change my habits. By changing my diet and exercise routine, I have lost thirty pounds in five months. 

Even though doing things virtually is never the same as in person, this is a time when we have to make opportunities for ourselves. Little did I know that all of this would happen until I found them. If there is a will, there is a way. Identify activities that interest you, and schedule your routine how it will best suit you. Experiment with different techniques on how you can make the most of the time that you have. 

If you have a story that you want to share, reach out to organizations, blogs, podcasts, etc. who are seeking individuals to talk about what they have been through. It may take time to earn an opportunity. While you wait, it is valuable to write or create a website. Lastly, make your days productive. Sitting around and doing nothing will not help your physical and mental well-being. As you all know, where the mask when you are out in the community and keep socially distant.