It goes without even saying that the COVID-19 pandemic has created uncertainty in our daily lives, education, and not to mention, work. How we used to spend our life has certainly changed. Change is an inevitable part of our lives- be it sudden or gradual. However, this time the changes have happened so abruptly and rapidly that people are still astounded. With no clear end in sight, it is obvious that adjusting to the ‘new normal’ can be quite challenging.
As the lockdown restrictions ease in different parts of the world, it’s high time to navigate new routines so that adjusting to the new normal doesn’t seem like a big deal. Before the pandemic happened, who would have thought that people would start stocking up on toilet papers and trip to a grocery store would be no less than an adventure.
It is understandable that all of this is challenging – and even more challenging for those who don’t like the idea of change. It is important to keep in mind that being overwhelmed and not being able to control our own lives can lead to burn-out. But if you don’t want these unprecedented times to take a toll on your mental health, we have to make sure that we are ready to let go of our old normal and start to settle into what seems to be our new normal. Here are a few tips that can help you adjust to the new normal.
- Masks and gloves should be used no matter which part of the world you live in.
- Queuing is the new norm. Whether you are visiting health professionals, getting in an elevator, or going for grocery shopping, make sure you make a queue and maintain a proper distance.
- Public transport is different than how it used to be. Keep in mind that with social distancing in place and commuters wearing both masks and gloves, traveling in public transport would not be the same.
- It is crucial to be extra careful when someone sneezes, coughs, or sniffles. All of these are the symptoms of COVID-19, hence, you should take care of your health. If you have any such symptoms, the first thing that you need to do is get yourself tested.
Once you do so, make sure you go to self-isolation until the report comes back negative. Also, you need to take extra care of your hands and personal hygiene so that you don’t catch the virus.
- We’ll start to have fun at our place due to travel restrictions. This is undoubtedly a great opportunity for you to spend quality time with your family. There are a lot of indoor activities that you can indulge in.
Nothing can be better than having a movie night with your entire family. Try to make the most of Xfinity TV packages; this way, you’ll never get bored.
- Getting together with friends and family have changed. As lockdown has been eased in different parts of the world, having brunch with a bunch of friends at the local cafe has changed.
Salons are no longer closed but it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s safe to go out. If you need a haircut so badly or need to have a small meeting with your team at a cafe, make sure that you take all the precautionary measures.
- The way we pursue education has dramatically changed. As government and health officials emphasize practicing social distancing, it has become difficult for schools and universities to conduct in-person classes.
Hence, they have started conducting online lectures. This is something that looks very different from previous years but it is the right thing to do during these uncertain times.
- Work has also changed due to social distancing. There are many offices out there that have happily embraced the policy of working from home. This is, without a doubt, one effective way to minimize traveling on public transport.
Also, gathering in groups at the office can play a vital role in curbing the spread of the virus. Not going to the office doesn’t necessarily mean that you won’t have to attend meetings. With social distancing in place, Zoom meetings have become the new normal.
- Not seeing loved ones for your own safety. If you live away from your elderly parents and grandparents, then it is not a good idea to see them during this time. Maybe you have pregnant friends or know someone who has become a new parent, make sure you call them to check on them instead of going out and meeting them.
If you have a relative and friend with health conditions, know that they are more vulnerable to coronavirus. Hence, it is crucial to stay away from them. This is what you can do to keep them safe. But we can’t deny the fact that it can be quite challenging to maintain distance in a time when it’s more crucial than ever to stay connected.