2020 has been a whirlwind of a year. Just when we were all finally adapting to the ‘new’ normal of social distancing, working from home and home-schooling, things have changed again (a big applause to all of us for doing such a great job during lockdown!) This change is definitely for the better as businesses start to re-open and we get to do things like visit family and go to national parks, however, this means once again we have to readapt our lives. For some, this might be easy. For others, it will be difficult. If you’ve been a happy home-dweller for the past few months and now the thought of going out and life getting busy again has you feeling a bit unsettled, that is completely okay.
To make it easier, here are a few reminders and tips to help kickstart your journey into a (mostly) restriction-free life.
1. Go easy on yourself.
When everything starts going back to normal, you may feel extra pressure to see friends and go out and do all the things. Just remind yourself, you don’t have to if you don’t want to. For some of you, this time of lockdown has been a time of increased stress both emotionally and financially. You will need some time to re-adjust, and maybe even some time to start earning money again and feeling more stable. So don’t feel obligated to go see and do everything straight away. If it’s going to be too much of a strain on your wallet or your mind, pass it up for another day.
2. Come out of lockdown in stages.
Similar to the above, the reduced restrictions may have you feeling like you need to do everything at once; take a hike at a national park, walk your dog somewhere other than your home streets, visit all your friends and plan dinner parties with your family. But you don’t have to do all those things at once. Take it by one thing at a time. One day you might go for a hike, then go back to your ‘normal’ lockdown routine. Then the next week you might plan a dinner with your family or friends. Let yourself ease into this so you don’t get exhausted or overwhelmed.
3. Continue practising self-care.
This time of lockdown has been a perfect opportunity to make time for ourselves. But this doesn’t have to stop just because life is going back to normal. Treat this lockdown as a learning tool. During this time, what did you enjoy doing most? What did you find yourself missing? These two questions should help you build an idea of what you need more in your life to stay happy.
4. Reach out to others.
You don’t have to go out visiting friends or family if you don’t feel it’s necessary, but it’s still good to reach out to them and check in on how they are doing, and also let them know how you are doing. Sharing your thoughts, worries and stresses with someone will help normalise those feelings and you will feel lighter because of it. Also, discuss with them what they are planning to do with these eased restrictions, maybe there is something you can do together which will make the transition easier.
5. Breathe. You’ve got this.
I know it’s hard to think that just over two months ago life was completely different. The world that is resuming now is one you’re familiar with. Take whatever lessons you’ve learnt during lockdown with you, while feeling confident that this is a world you’ve lived happily in before, and will live happily in again. It may not be exactly the same, but if this period has taught us anything, it’s that we can adapt and adjust.
The biggest reminder through all of this is to be kind. To yourself and to others. This statement says it best…
As governments are trying to figure out how to ease back into a new normal, please remember-
🛑 Some people don’t agree with the suggested reopening... that’s okay. Be kind.
🏡 Some people are still planning to stay at home... that’s okay. Be kind.
🦠 Some are still scared of getting the virus and a second wave happening... that’s okay. Be kind.
💰 Some are sighing with relief to go back to work knowing they may possibly save their business or their homes... that’s okay. Be kind.
👩🏾⚕️Some are thankful they can finally have a surgery they have put off... that’s okay. Be kind.
📝 Some will be able to attend interviews after weeks without a job... that’s okay. Be kind.
😷 Some will wear masks for weeks... that’s okay. Be kind.
💅🏻 Some people will rush out to get their hair or nails done... that’s okay. Be kind.
❤️ The point is, everyone has different viewpoints/feelings and that’s okay... Be kind.
We each have a different story. If you need to stay home, stay home. But be kind.
If you need to go out, just respect others when in public and be kind!
Don’t judge fellow humans because you’re not in their story. We all are in different Financial - and - Mental states than we were months ago.
🥰 So remember, BE KIND.
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