Because of the global pandemic, we have experienced unexpected joys, learned new skills, adjusted to long days of video conferencing, and dealt with drops in income and potential job losses. At the same time, we have also experienced an increased sense of urgency, collaboration, and pride because we are a part of the industry that has been tapped to heal all our nations from this unexpected virus.
If you are like me, you are not getting a break from the influx of work meetings, family stressors, feelings of isolation, and the media outlets. Quarantine fatigue affects us all and can distract us from what we need to accomplish. In order to bring some sense of normalcy into your routine, there are a few things to remember.
Give Yourself a Break
It is ok to set boundaries. Make sure you know when it is time to shut off the phone or computer and stop taking phone calls. Also, if a child, adult, or pet interrupts a meeting or distracts you, it is ok. It is happening to all of us around the world. Just mute or turn your video off, and text or chat your team that you will return shortly but need to tend to your family for a moment.
Take Your Temperature at Home
Not just your physical temperature, but the pulse of your family before you leave the house. If you are going into work, you are likely feeling like you have unsettled household duties as well as unsettled tasks at the site or office. That is ok. Again, we are all in the same situation. Do your best to make a list to get the unresolved tasks off your mind and then set your plan for what you can realistically accomplish today and for the rest of the week.
Our new normal is to have our temperature checked at the door, be quizzed on how we are feeling, put on our mask, and live under a constant fear that we may contract, or transmit, coronavirus to someone else. We know that this is a temporary situation and we are a part of the solution.
I challenge you to do one thing for you today that does not involve work, your phone, or your computer.
Turn off the News Stream
We live in a world where we are always tuned in to the media, the news; it is a constant stream of communication. In order to not drive yourself crazy, it is ok to limit your news time. Make a commitment to yourself that you will not check email until you have had your first cup of coffee, or at the very least until your feet have hit the floor!
My family is blessed with a talent for music. We take time to enjoy those talents and listen to each other sing, play an instrument, showcase the lat-est video, or rehearse for virtual auditions. This situation has brought us closer and taught me to appreciate the time we spend together.
I also like to sit outside and enjoy the sunshine on my deck. I enjoy nature and taking a moment away from a busy schedule to reflect on my workday and disconnect—this helps me maintain my best self.
I challenge you to do one thing for you today that does not involve work, your phone, or your computer. I cannot guarantee it will make you feel better, but I know stepping away from the new normal even for 10 minutes a day gives me the energy and breather that I need to be the best I can be for my family and my colleagues.
