Adjusting to Life Offline

My first year at Rollins I constantly bemoaned our heavily online format. I skipped most social or extracurricular events because I was tired of zoom meetings and I struggled to focus in online lectures. Now that we’ve returned to basically in-person everything I regret dismissing the benefits of a work from home life and have found it hard to motivate myself to attend classes and events which could once easily be joined from the comfort of my couch. Regardless of our backgrounds, almost all of us have had to readjust to life in-person this semester.

Going back to a life offline is forcing us to use many social skills that we haven’t practiced for well over a year. Our activities and conversations were limited to a familiar pattern among a select group of friends and family that have made the prospect of in-person interactions seem daunting. While there have been many changes to our society during the pandemic which could benefit us to keep around, being in-person again offers opportunities that a virtual environment simply cannot. I don’t know about you, but for me, speaking up to answer a question in an online class was awkward, and reaching out to classmates or professors to meet over zoom often felt like a lot more effort than simply starting a conversation with someone before class. While school might be a bit more difficult in-person, being able to physically interact with our classmates and faculty allows us to learn from each other and seek help more easily. Not to mention, one of the benefits of going to graduate school is the networking opportunities it provides. Take advantage of that by getting to know your teachers and making friends!

If you’re finding it difficult to convince yourself to show up to your in-person lecture or make an appearance at that club meeting, you’re definitely not alone. Here are some tips that have helped me get back into the swing of in-person life.

1. Make it a habit. One way to get used to actively attending and participating in events is to make it into a routine. When an activity becomes a habit, it makes it easier to win the mental battle of whether to do it or not. Creating a routine around your classes or in-person commitments makes these events a to-do list item instead of a decision.
2. Find an accountability partner. This is my go-to motivation for doing any activity I’m dreading. Whether it be having a workout buddy or a study partner, making plans with someone else not only encourages me to show up so I don’t let them down, but it makes the activity more enjoyable. Agreeing to walk to a meeting with a friend or sit next to someone in class might be the motivation you need to show up.
3. Remember your end goal. You’re not investing so much time and money into a graduate degree to learn nothing. When I find myself putting in the bare minimum, I remind myself that my education is only as valuable as what I put into it.
4. Prioritize your health. Just because life is moving offline again that doesn’t mean the pandemic is over. It’s important to remember that we should still be vigilant about our health behaviors regardless of where we are. Washing hands, wearing masks, and being cautious in big groups of people are still essential to keeping not only yourself, but the people around you healthy. Don’t forget about your mental health as well. Taking time to de-stress with activities that invigorate you, whether that be going on hikes or game nights with friends, can keep you from feeling burnt out as we make a massive adjustment to our everyday lives. Seeking help from a therapist or resources from Counseling and Psychological Services is also a great option for anyone, regardless of your mental health status.

COVID-19 is showing no signs of disappearing anytime soon. Circumstances are constantly changing which is why its important to be adaptable and take advantage of the benefits of whatever environment you’re currently working or learning in. Remember to be kind to yourself and others as we are all doing our best to navigate a challenging and changing world.

Feautred Image by aboodi vesakaran on Unsplash