A perspective on ‘new normal’ during the Covid pandemic

What if there is no more Covid pandemic? Also no more lock-down rules – and we have to adjust to the ‘normal’ again?

What is ‘normal’? Do we just go on as if nothing has happened?

I think we should all sit back and rethink this scenario. It certainly pays to be kind.
Maybe, like me, you are hiding from the world because you also have loved ones that have comorbidities, and you would rather spend time with them than nobody at all.
Will we still need to wear masks?
Are we still going to be using delivery services for groceries?
Should we climb out of our shells and reset ourselves?

From a personal perspective, and having worked from home for many years, I think we need to not only be kind to ourselves but to others too.
Social events may be an exciting idea right now, but not everyone is ready to jump into mass gatherings. Don’t be influenced by others and be kind to those who want to take it slower.
Some have lost loved ones and don’t trust the new normal yet. Let them go at their own speed.
Some don’t mind hugging with a mask on, others do. Some trust you enough not to wear a mask. Respect each other’s feelings, especially when they have taken the social step and are out of their comfort zone already. This may be their 1st big step into their new normal.
You may want to start with small home gatherings, rather than a full guest-list party in the pub.

If like some of us you are still working from home – either because you can, because the government has requested you to try to still work from home, or because you have the ability to choose to, remember the basics:

• Work space – be away from your bedroom where possible.
• Take a break from the home office – go grab a coffee on the go – it’s like F5 (refresh) on your workstation.
• Eat healthy.
• Exercise for at least half an hour per day.
• Get fresh air – it can be combined with your exercise.
• Ensure that you get enough good quality sleep: The World Sleep Society (WSS) celebrated World Sleep Day on Friday, March 19, 2021. The slogan for the 14th annual World Sleep Day is ‘Regular Sleep, Healthy Future.’

By Nelia Roberts