The COVID-19 pandemic has many of us feeling that our personal and professional circumstances have gotten beyond our control. But it doesn’t have to be this way, according to David Hofstetter, a professor in Clark University’s School of Professional Studies (SPS).

In his presentation “How to Stay Motivated and Positive in Turbulent Times,” Hofstetter advises that focusing on those things within our control is key to remaining positive. Besides eating healthily and getting enough sleep, he suggests:

• Work on fun projects you have been putting off.
• Learn something new.
• Turn off the news.
• Explore new or revisit old music.
• Get outside.

Watch a brief recap of the webinar below, then read more:

Hofstetter cites the example of a woman who moved her two children into one bedroom and created a study space for them in the empty second bedroom. She then fashioned an office for her and her husband in the dining room. The simple action of reimagining existing space allowed her to exert some control over their stay-at-home work and school environments.

“I’m not saying you’ve always got to be optimistic and positive — sometimes there are bad days,” Hofstetter said, but it’s possible to shift to a positive mindset by seeking solutions, expecting good results from your efforts, and focusing on making life happier.

Want to learn more? View the full version of the webinar, which is part of the SPS Talks webinar series, “Staying Effective in Uncertain Times.” Offered by Clark faculty members, the interactive webinars address organizational and personal leadership topics relevant to these stressful times.