It is inarguable that our ordinary lives have changed in a multitude of ways. As the world continues to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone must adapt to a new normal. While this new normal and isolation may be inconvenient and unwelcome, it is necessary to slow the spread of the virus and save lives. Entering this new normal unprepared will make the transition much more difficult. Take the time to learn about the new way of going about daily life and how to cope with the changes to make the adjustment simpler, and to look after your mental health.
Here are five tips to help you adjust to the new normal, weather the storm, and continue enjoying your life despite all the changes.
Embrace Digital Services
Most people are staying home as much as possible these days, but that doesn’t mean people are missing out on their usual services. Virtual and digital services have stepped in to replace in-person appointments and meetings. A wide range of digital services enables people worldwide to stay connected and continue their critical services online. But remember, use digital services wisely to avoid the effects of ‘infobesity‘.
Telehealth
Depending on where you live, many medical offices have closed or greatly restricted in-person visits. Unless an appointment requires a physical exam or the patient needs critical care, most medical appointments are now conducted through telehealth. Telehealth is the general term to describe medical appointments conducted over the Internet or a phone call. Appointments ranging from talk therapy to outpatient physical therapy and non-urgent consultations are all made through telehealth. Providers generally use HIPAA compliant video conferencing apps or a traditional phone call to connect with patients and provide care. Telehealth has been mostly successful, and many providers are considering continuing the practice even after the current pandemic passes.
Call Friends and Family
Isolating at home and social distancing can become lonely. When you feel the need to talk with friends and family, turn to video calls. While joining a group video call isn’t the same as meeting in person, it is a safe and painless way to connect with the important people in your life. You can set up a movie watch party or have a family dinner with a video call to stay connected even while isolated at home.
Practice Self-Care
While adjusting to the new normal, you cannot forget to take care of yourself and fall into the trap of negative thinking with all that is happening. It can be easy to fall into the habit of saving money and not allowing yourself any treats. However, these are stressful times, and occasional treats are critical to maintaining your mental health. Order delivery from your favourite restaurant and make your own night out at home. Buy a new game for yourself to unwind after work, order a new book to escape into, or create a home spa with bath bombs and candles for personal relaxation. If you need a helping hand with positive thinking, here are ways you can be positive at home. Self-care is not selfish, so do not feel bad for treating yourself.
Take Up A Hobby
Spending more time than usual at home can leave you with extra free time. Use your new-found free time to take up a hobby. If you have always wanted to learn a skill, practice a craft, or try an activity, now is a perfect time. You can order most hobby supplies online and have them delivered in a matter of days to start right away. There are no excuses to stop you from learning to knit, speak a new language, or start any other hobby. Learning something new or returning to something you used to enjoy is an excellent way to maintain your mental health and occupy your new free time.
Working From Home
Millions of people are now working from home, and while that may seem like a dream, it can create new problems you must combat. Make the transition easier by setting up a proper home office with a desk, chair, and monitor. You are likely working from a laptop, unless you have a desktop already, and fighting the small screen to find the tab you want is a waste of time. With a few simple cables and a decent 27” monitor, you no longer have to hunch over a laptop or fight the small screen to find what you need. While you can make the bare minimum equipment work, you will be much happier and more productive if you take the time to create a proper workspace at home.
Keep A Routine
It can be easy to let your daily routine lapse during all these changes, but keeping a routine is essential and will help you retain a feeling of normalcy. Even if your daily routine has drastically changed, it is worth creating a new routine to reflect this new normal. Giving your life structure will help you keep control and manage surprises. Figure out what time you should wake up for work, when you are done with work for the day, and when to go to bed at a minimum. A schedule or routine will keep you from overworking and return some normalcy during these turbulent times.
We are all dealing with the new normal, and adjusting is easier said than done. While we are unsure of what the future may hold, use these five tips to make your daily life more enjoyable and make the new normal less intimidating.
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