I’ve had a great deal of time for self-reflection since COVID-19 began. Fortunately, I haven’t lost anyone from the disease over the past nine months, but I empathize with anyone reading this who has. Instead, my wife and I welcomed our second child and son in March, Bowen.

If you know me, you know I’m motivated by my family. They’re the world to me and the reason why I’m so motivated to succeed. If this pandemic has surfaced anything, it’s that I wasn’t my best self before we were all forced into lockdown. I was anxious, tired and my priorities were out of line.

However, I’ve made the best of being quarantined for the last year and have learned these five things about myself:

I’m an optimist

Strange but true, I’ve found that I’m more of a “glass half-full” type of person. This has been a huge revelation for me given that I’m such a logical thinker. I’ve found that I have more faith in the people I surround myself with, my community, my coworkers and family than I ever have before and I’m thankful that I’ve got these people in my life.

Similarly, when faced with a difficult decision, I’m relaxed and confident in the outcome. Whether it be something small or even a large life decision, I find that when I’m optimistic, the outcome is usually far better.

I’m my best self when I have a routine

I listen to a lot of Tim Ferriss and I’m a big fan of his podcast where he always makes it a point to ask his guests about their routines. Before COVID-19 I didn’t have a routine, but by removing my commute, I’ve established one that’s helped me sleep longer, eat better and focus on the things that matter.

I won’t bore you with the details, but I’ve lost 30 pounds since COVID-19 started and I feel incredible.

I’m eager to learn new things

I never realized how productive I can be when I set my sights on learning new things. I’ve sought out courses, books, newsletters and so much more over the past nine months. Learning is in my blood and I crave it.

I’m a planner

While it’s the least shocking thing I’ve confirmed about myself, I’ve noticed how much I enjoy planning and how it’s actually brought me peace during this hectic time.

I have so much to be thankful for

I feel truly fortunate for what my wife and I have been able to accomplish and the life we’ve built for our small family. Now that I’m home everyday and around my family now more than ever, I’ve realized how good we have it and how lucky I am to live in a home with so much love.