Covid-19 in NYC: our community shares stories of quarantine and self-isolation. Today, meet Olga, from Ukraine
The pandemic is dramatically reshaping life in New York. Beyond the headlines, members of our community share their first-person accounts on navigating the outbreak. Olga, who grew up in Ukraine, explains how sticking to a daily schedule helps her to feel less stressed
Interview: Maria Pyaterneva
Pictures: Olga Pustyntseva
Manhattan in the coronavirus era: photos taken in late March show streets completely empty
What are your feelings and fears?
Watching the news about the pandemic repeatedly can be upsetting. Because of that, I decided to reduce my daily news consumption. Now I’m reading and watching the news very selectively.
How are you dealing with quarantine?
Walking one hour a day helps me cope with stress tremendously. My husband and I love going for walks late at night, after 9 or 10 pm, because the city is empty and we can avoid interaction with other people. After a long walk, I sleep better. I also feel that it improves my mental health.
How are you spending your time? How is your daily routine now?
I am easily able to procrastinate at home. That is why keeping a schedule for my day helps me manage my time more efficiently. I also like to create tasks for myself in the form of a to-do list. This creates structure for the day. I am becoming more organized. Every day I devote some time to personal growth and development, physical exercises and healthy eating. On average, I read about 30-100 pages a day (it depends on which type of book I am reading). I try to work out 3-4 times per week. There are a variety of effective bodyweight exercises that don’t require any equipment and that are fun to do. I usually watch exercise videos to get some ideas.
How the pandemic is affecting your life goals?
My short-term goal is to get a certificate in Google Ads. Fortunately, we have all the resources available online. I am naturally a driven and passionate learner. I am dedicating my time to learn a variety of skills.
Are you still applying for jobs? Are you doing job interviews?
Sometimes I feel discouraged, but I always keep in mind that if I take myself out of the process, someone else may take that dream job I could get. In the current situation, it is important to be prepared for video interviews since all the companies are working remotely.
What do you miss the most now in your daily life?
I miss going to coffee shops and seeing my friends. I miss swimming and having group fitness classes (pilates, yoga, etc). I also miss going to networking events.
