We’ve all heard the phrase ‘the new normal’ and in truth, it’s something most of us have taken in our stride but it is the cause of a lot of anxiety and tension. Tempers are short and time is of the essence so as we return to work we need to be cognisant of our triggers and control our reactions to people and circumstances.
It is commonplace to see posts on social media asking patrons to be patient in restaurants as owners and staff gear up for trading under the most unusual of circumstances. This plea for patience should not be limited to the hospitality industry, all of us need to take a deep breath and think before we speak. Business is on a tightrope and jobs are on the line so we all need to be kind – this has to be part of our ‘new normal‘ if we are to come out of this with a fighting chance.
Before you complain, consider this:
- Business owners are running at about 50% capacity
- They’ve lost about two months of trading and increased their debt levels to keep the doors open
- There are realistic fears about staff’s welfare in terms of job security, finances and health
- Any further closures owing to outbreaks only exacerbates the strain
So this is what you can do to contribute to reducing the stress out there:
- Stay home if you feel ill. Keep your head about you and don’t contribute to panic and mayhem. Be sensible.
- Keep washing your hands for 20 seconds – even if they’re dry from all the sanitizer!
- Make your family strip down when they get home and put laundry straight in the washing machine. Leave shoes out in the sun or wipe down with sanitiser. Wash down in the shower or with soap and water.
- Keep busy and keep moving. Exercise is the best way to keep those lungs healthy.
- Get some sun every day. 15 minutes will top up your Vitamin D levels and help keep you healthy. Fresh air remains a must.
- Get enough sleep and make sure it’s quality sleep. Switch off your devices at least an hour before bedtime and spend quiet time talking. It’ll change your family dynamic and help you change gears before bedtime.
- Make time for children in the home and get them back into a normal routine. It has proven to be the best therapy for lockdown anxiety. It provides structure and a sense of security.
- Continue to practice caution with regards to your security. Violent crime is on the increase as unemployment levels increase.
- Share what you have to help reduce the immense need. People are scared. They are hungry and cold. Be kind and compassionate.
- Be gentle on yourself and those around you. We’re way past the point of aiming for the stars. We’re so far down the line now that realistically, people are frustrated, they’re anxious to get back to work and fearful of what awaits. You don’t have to be upbeat every minute of every day. Take a moment to let it all sink in and believe that everything is going to be okay.