I recently had the opportunity to take some time off and, while it was certainly different than a typical vacation, I truly appreciated the break. This pandemic stuff is exhausting, isn’t it? I encourage you each to keep focusing on your self- care, giving others the benefit of the doubt, and recognizing the shared impact of stress. I get it: we are collectively tired of the situation and COVID is simply not tired of us.

What can you do to make your day, your week, or your month better? Richard and Danyelle improved their day by going out for personal pizzas and Pepsi. I do better when I get up and move-especially outside! I know that, with kindness and respect at the forefront, we make each other’s days better and are simply stronger.

Here are a few other things you can try to practice self-care:

• Instead of keeping a to-do list, try a ta-da list! Write down the things you’ve already accomplished that day.
• Connect with a friend – even just a short text to say hi and that you’re thinking of them.
• Write down, or say out loud, 5 things that you are thankful for.