There is a scene in the movie Dead Poet’s Society (1989 movie starring Robin Williams) where he speaks to his students about Carpe Diem. He explains to them that while we are here today, tomorrow we may be food for the flowers of the Earth. He ends his speech with, “Make today extraordinary.” Something to think about for sure.

When you wake up in the morning, do you think about what you are not able to do or do you look at what you are able to do? With us not being able to have parties like we did before or even have coworker gatherings, it’s easy to be frustrated and we should have good outlets for those frustrations. Take one day at a time. What can I do today? At the end of the day, look back at what was achieved and acknowledge it, even if what you accomplished was just to do your job today or get your kids through stay-at-home school. Appreciate where your efforts were targeted and think about what you want to continue tomorrow or what you want to change.

So….about those outlets for frustration. I have heard many creative options that people are doing. Garages are being set up as gyms. Living rooms are being turned into art studios or yoga classes. Backyards are being turned into America Ninja Warrior obstacle courses. Creativity has been off the charts. Lovin’ that for sure. Healthy outlets would include exercise of some kind, getting rest, meditating and socializing safely with Zoom or other means. Other great healthy outlets include doing something for someone else. What can you do for your elderly neighbor or relative? How can you make their day? Giving to others is a great way to use your extra energy.

Those who are elderly or physically challenged at the moment can seize the day as well. Call a relative or friend that you have not spoken to in a while. You could make their day just by reaching out to say hello. 

Children can seize the day too. They can call grandma or grandpa and connect with them. They can make homemade cards and send them to someone to help cheer up their day. Kids can talk about their studies and what they learned during school that day. How can they take that knowledge and apply it to today? If they are learning about the environment, for example, have them apply one piece of their new knowledge to your household. Maybe recycle something new or learn to compost. Be creative.

Please let me know what other ways you are seizing the day. I would enjoy sharing the knowledge with my almost 500 subscribers.

While this situation is lasting longer than anyone thought, use this philosophy when you can. People are still doing some amazing things in spite of these challenges. You are worth the effort!!