5 Things that Motivate Me to Be Happy During Covid-19 Quarantine

I haven’t stepped outside the house since the lockdown—or what we now call the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ). I haven’t seen some of my family members, my friends, or my discipleship group in what feels like forever. One month may not sound long, but it can certainly feel tedious.

I haven’t been to the mall, the church, the beach, or the park—I haven’t been anywhere except right here at home! 😛

Thirty days of quarantine, and I survived. Here are the top five things that motivate me to stay happy:

1. Listening to music

Photo by Andrea Piacquadio

I often find myself singing and listening to music while I cook, wash the dishes, or work. I head over to YouTube and fill the house with Chris Tomlin and Endless Summer—music that lifts my spirit and keeps my mood light throughout the day.

2. Reading Books

Photo by Negative Space

I read in the morning when I wake up, while Azlan is still asleep, and again before resting at night. I follow reading plans on the YouVersion Bible app, which is free and something I’ve been using for many years now.

I also enjoy reading inspirational books by Joyce Meyer, Max Lucado, Elizabeth George, and many others. Reading truly is a wonderful exercise—training the mind while nourishing the soul.

3. Playing Games

Photo by Ahmed Aqtai

I only have two games on my phone—Cooking Madness and Interior Story. I’ve been playing Cooking Madness even before the ECQ, while Interior Story is something new that I’ve just installed.

Cooking Madness is easily my favorite. The levels are fun and challenging, the different worlds keep things interesting, and the graphics are really cool. I usually play it before going to bed—it’s my little way of winding down at the end of the day.

4. Keeping a Gratitude Journal

Photo by Negative Space

Keeping a gratitude journal can truly help you keep going—especially during difficult times. For me, it serves as a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and goodness in the past. It refreshes my memory of the many good things that have happened in my life.

Writing—whether through journaling or blogging—helps release stress and gives me a sense of renewal, almost like a fresh start each time.

You should try this too.

5. Family Bonding

My precious gems

I cannot overemphasize this one—stay at home and find ways to bond with your family. I am deeply grateful that I am not alone. In the midst of this perplexing season, I know that Jesus is with me.

We play with our dear Azlan, watch movies, talk, pray, eat pancakes, and laugh together. 😁

Your list may look different from mine, and that’s perfectly okay. What truly matters is that we seize this time—to pause, to look around, and to intentionally find joy.

"Find the smallest, simplest glimmers of joy."