One thing that is certain, we know that adjusting to change can be challenging. But be it planned or unplanned, gradual or sudden, change is inevitable and very much part of being human. Over the past few months, we’ve experienced an unprecedented shift in our way of life due to COVID-19. We were introduced to the omnipresent implementation of Social Distancing which led to the worldwide lockdown. With lockdown affecting our lives from left right and center, many of us have tried rekindling an old hobby and picked up a new skill in pursuit of being productive if not efficient. Fast forward to the month of June, approx. four months into the lockdown (and possible unlockdown in some part of the country) the world is experiencing a massive digital transformation with respect to mass mobilisation and gatherings. Schools and colleges along with other education institutions remain shut, with authorities emphasising on online classes and e-learning, giving the parents no other option but home schooling. Pretty much all of this describes the new normal. But have we adjusted to the new normal?

Here are the tips to help you adjust to the new normal:

Keep mask and gloves handy

Since the start of the spread of the Pandemic, masks and gloves were the new essentials to fight and survive the pandemic. Providing the need to maintain higher standards of personal hygiene they have also seen as making fashion statements. The pandemic paradigm has changed the face of public transportation for long distance travel . While hugs and handshakes were required to greet when meeting someone, now it’s best to join hands to say hello – a method adopted by Britain’s Prince Charles in recent Prince’s Trust Awards.

Patience is the key

From standing in long queues to buy groceries to waiting for an internet connection to be restored for online work from home, it is time to befriend patience. However misleading and absurd the concept of social distancing is, do not forget to stay connected with loved ones through various online mediums and keep a close tab on them.

Be kind or be quite

While trying to stay connected to the friends afar, do not forget the ones living close to you. Adjusting your expectations, being kind and respectful are some of the new habits you need to inculcate if you are not accustomed to sharing your space with your family. Be mindful of their needs and give them their space that you seek for yourself.

Let go of loss but not love

With different levels of expectations comes the acknowledgment of the challenges one is facing. It is difficult to overcome stress and anxiety while practicing social distancing especially when you are surrounded by your peers. What will really help is – taking out time for yourself and reflecting upon your life. Allow yourself to be at denial for all the plans that have failed due to pandemic. Grieve for what you have lost in terms of time, money, and efforts and bounce back when you know it is time.

Create a routine to bring back the sense of time

You may not get to resume your gym routines, library visits, or a quick brunch break at the closest cafeteria, but you can cease all the opportunity to bring your gym, library, or even your café at home. Join workout sessions, yoga classes; learn to make your favourite Dalgona Coffee, and please clean your wardrobe. Do not forget to follow your sleep pattern and take your meal and essential vitamins on time.

Find the joy in your lockdown journey

Do small things that bring joy to you and your loved ones. For instance, lend your hand in cooking and help your mother out, teach your father to do online grocery shopping.

Take up what was long lost and forgotten

Start picking books from your reading list that you have longed to complete. Complete your web series wish list. You may execute the home business idea, you have been dreaming about. While you cannot travel, you can enter a new world with every new book/series.

Let your thoughts speak to you

Maintain a journal and write daily before going to bed, make note of your thoughts, emotions, and experiences. Do not forget to mention five things you are grateful for.

Take a breather with your mask on

And lastly, give yourself a breather. Limit your social media exposure to enhance your wellbeing. Take up new hobbies, learn new languages, enroll for online courses made available by top Universities across the world.

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