Applying an 8R model during COVID19

As we all of us since last year, we have worn a mask, have applied #socialdistancing and have been washing our hands regularly in order to avoid the virus, Back in February 12th, we got in contact with a family person who got the virus. Once we realized it, we isolated ourselves and followed religiously all the guidelines; we took care of ourselves and we hoped not to get the virus. But as it happens Greek tragedies, even if you do everything perfectly right, things can go wrong.

After almost 12 days, we (my wife and myself) have started suffering terrible headaches, while my daughter had fever ; we did the rapid tests and we were all positive. Again, we followed the national guidelines and we were emotionally prepared to go through it.

Even we did not get in the hospital and all the family members are no in danger anymore, I can say that it was a very tough situation and not a simple flu. I have never experienced in my life such terrible headaches and lack of energy. I do not want even to discuss the complete loss of taste and smell (till now). I am not sure when I will regain those senses again and when I will be 100% in my previous energy levels, but I learned a lot during this unprecedent ordeal.

Resilience can help us get through and overcome hardship. But resilience is not something we’re born with—it’s built over time as the experiences we have interact with our unique, individual genetic makeup. That’s why we all respond to stress and adversity—like that from the COVID-19 pandemic—differently.

Although there are some things that we can do all of us and even I AM NOT COVID19 expert, let me share my 8R model.

1. REPORT your situation to your closed ones (not to all your network) employer, stakeholders, academic community (if you are student) investors (if you are startup founder) and debtors (they want you healthy to pay the debt back). Update them regularly.
2. REMOVE negativity; In our social media networks (specially facebook) you may have #flatearthers , anti-vaccine conspiracy theorists, delusional revolutionists etc; Please MUTE YOUR NOTIFICATIONS and even UNINSTALL FACEBOOK and NEWS. During this period you need #innerpeace and #positivevibes
3. RESPECT piously the World Health Organization and national guidelines; not just for your health but also to avoid spreading the virus.
4. REINFORCE your immune system; vitamins (C, D) , hydrating yourself and eat well.
5. REST well. As a #5amclub guy, I felt the need to sleep well and re-prioritize health over productivity.
6. READ ; As a #voraciousreader I kept reading; apart from your body, you need to have strong mindset and books can help you see things differently.
7. REAP the benefits of technology; Even we have amazing friends that they actually helped us, you can leverage some cool apps (Glovo and BRINGO among others)
8. REFLECT; COVID19 as any tough situation is a great opportunity to reflect and re-prioritize goals.

P.s: Wishful thinking as a #foodlover and #winelover: I am looking forward to the moment that I will fully taste again a meal and smell the flavors of a good wine;

Till then : Stay Safe & Vaccinate yourself