As the government begins to ease imposed quarantine in some parts of the country, you might be wondering what lies ahead of you in a post-pandemic world.
Truth is, nobody knows what the future brings or when all of this would be over.
But, you don’t have to worry! You can still prepare yourself as you enter the ‘new normal’ or the state of being after a dramatic change has transpired.
Here are some tips to help you adjust and gradually embrace the changes in your environment.
Tip #1: Accept the ‘new normal’
Without a doubt, the pandemic is changing the country’s transportation, education, health, and economic system. It is changing the way people live, too.
The question is, “Are you ready for change?”
If you’re still having second thoughts, perhaps it’s about time to embrace the reality that is right before your eyes. Being resistant to change and feeling angry about the ‘new normal’ could leave you powerless in facing what lies ahead.
The book Understanding and Enhancing Psychological Acceptance says acceptance can be a powerful tool in coping with the inevitable distress and helps one achieve important behavior changes which may lead to an enhanced quality of life.
Tip #2: Be wise and obedient
As you set foot once again onto the busy roads, bear in mind that the threat of being exposed to the virus is still present. Stay informed about the rules implemented in your community and workplace, and obey them accordingly.
Tip #3: Learn and unlearn
From everyday wearing of face masks to social distancing, be ready to learn and practice new habits. For your safety, you might also want to unlearn or avoid old ways of greeting such as handshakes, hugs, and even the Filipino custom pagmamano.
Adapt new skills or behaviour and start looking for new options and opportunities. Are you ready for online classes or work from home setups? What are your plans for your business? Rethink, re-imagine and reinvent how post-quarantine life would be.
Tip #4: Take care of your mental health
Clinical Psychologist Steven Taylor in his The Guardian article said that 25% of respondents of his ongoing research have developed COVID stress syndrome. They worry about the social and economic impact of the virus, persistently check COVID-19-related news, and have nightmares and intense fears about becoming infected.
And while staying at home keeps people safer from the virus, the isolation, confinement, and social changes brought by the pandemic can cause anxiety during and after the quarantine.
The good news? You can cope! Asia Society suggests some tips to help you with your mental health: Breathe and stay calm, engage more in healthy activities, stay connected with family and friends, take breaks from breaking news, and take online consultations if needed. Remember, your mental health is as important as your physical health.
Be more patient and kinder to people, too. Everyone is adjusting and coping with the ‘new normal’, just like you.
Tip#5: Make prayers part of your ‘new normal’
In a world where everything can change in just one snap of a finger, the love of God remains constant. He is always by your side, and no pandemic can change that.
Connect with Him through prayers and be in faith that your Heavenly Father hears your prayers.
May you feel the depth, extent, and height of His love in the ‘new normal’ and beyond!
Do you have ideas and visions of what the ‘new normal’ is going to look like? Share it with us in the comments below! Also, our Prayer Center would love to pray for you as you navigate these life changes. Feel free to send your prayer requests to the CBN Asia and The 700 Club Asia Facebook pages.
Stay safe!
