No one knows what the new normal will look like. We are receiving multiple and often conflicting information from the government at all levels. One thing that has stayed pretty constant is what science is telling us; the virus is not going away in the next few months. This has affected everyone in multiple ways. No one’s life is the same. We are grieving the loss of our normal lives. Many are feeling fear, anger, anxiety and depression. But this physical distancing and this virus is giving us the opportunity to pause and think about what is really important in our lives.
I love going for walks with my dog and seeing families out together: jogging, riding bicycles, playing games and doing sidewalk chalk art. We are reconnecting with those closest to us in ways our “normal” lives seem to prevent. Taking time for activities we used to enjoy but never took the time to during our routine of long commutes and 12 hour days. I’ve started playing my guitar again after it being in the case for 10+ years. I’m editing photos to improve their artistic content. I’m making more phone calls to friends I usually only text. I love the virtual happy hours I join 5 or 6 days a week. Normally this would be a once a month activity, now I can connect with friends daily without feeling like I’m being a bother. I’m volunteering my time more, even if it is virtually. Home projects are getting done (still haven’t had the courage to tackle the garage cleaning lol). We are creating new structures in our lives.
I know for many the financial strains are extremely difficult. Loss of employment can be devastating. Perhaps this is the time to look at our skills and strengths and reach out into areas we never thought to before this. It is a good time for self reflection and assessment and a chance to change our future in ways we didn’t think of before.
As we watch the earth healing itself when human pause, can we also heal ourselves during this time. Therapy with a mental health provider can assist us at this time. Many therapists are utilizing telehealth platforms and are adjusting their reimbursement to allow more people access during this difficulty time.
As we continue to deal with this pandemic, I hope that our strength of character as individuals and a nation will shine through. The three key characteristics I feel that are important always, but particularly during this difficult time are: Being Respectful, Being Courteous, and Being Kind. These are simple things to do and can be small or large, it doesn’t matter. Here are some simple ways to practice these three characteristics.
BE RESPECTFUL: Wear a mask when you are in public spaces. Leave something on the shelf for the next person at the grocery store.
BE COURTEOUS: Say Thank you to those who are ringing up your order, bagging your groceries, delivering your packages. Saying please and thank you are simple ways to help everyone feel good.
BE KIND: Offer to help, foster a homeless pet, reach out to those who are elderly or those who live alone.
These aren’t difficult things to do, but if everyone would do it, the world would be a much better place.
So to end this blog, there is hope for the future, it may not look like the past, but we can choose how we react to this. We can choose our “new normal” and do we want to go back to the old one?? With what you have learned, what do you want your “new normal” to be? You can choose.