The impact of Covid-19 – How to face challenges and transition through this period of uncertainty
As of early July 2020, it is fair to say the entire world has been impacted by Covid-19, whether directly or indirectly. The UK is starting to edge back towards a sense of normality. Shops, bars, and restaurants are gradually re-opening and certain travel restrictions are being lifted. We all hope it is possible to avoid a ‘second wave’ to this global pandemic.
During the spread of Covid-19, I genuinely feel sorry for those who have lost family members. My heart goes out to all those affected and especially to those who, due to travel restrictions or social distancing measures, have not been able to pay their last respects and say proper goodbyes to loved ones. This must be an incredibly tough situation.
We continue to live in uncertain times. As we stand, things will very much depend on the decision-making of government, business and leadership figures and the behaviour of individuals to act responsibly. How long it takes before the Covid-19 pandemic passes entirely is up for discussion. Time will tell.
I have outlined 5 Key Ways in which we can all try to manage our way through this challenging Covid-19 period. Perhaps you may have started to implement some of these methods already:
1. Have a sense of perspective
During this time, it is important we all try to gain a sense of perspective. One of the best ways to achieve this is by drawing on positives and remaining as upbeat as possible. Drawing on the positives and taking a broader perspective can relieve stress and help to improve one’s mental state when faced with a new challenge or difficult situation. Draw strength and energy from that positivity. Having a positive state of mind will help improve your own ‘mental state’ which in turn will have a knock-on effect to family and friends around you.
2. Communication is key
In tough times when people are struggling to deal with issues, communication can be one of the first things to break down. When under stress, the natural inclination for many of us is to feel the pressure and isolate or shy away from talking about problems. I would advocate doing the opposite. Try to find the right moment to communicate with those closest to you- whether that be a partner, a parent, or a close friend whom you trust and can open up to. You may wish to consider “preparing” an individual before you share sensitive information- particularly if the topic is troubling or potentially stressful- to reduce the chance of affecting their own mental state. Find the right time and the right place to talk.
Talking and engaging in dialogue can be a therapeutic way to address issues and get things out in the open. If you are unable to find the answers you may be looking for from a close ally consider setting up a confidential, no obligation “discovery call” with a professional coach, a mentor or a counsellor to achieve support, guidance and direction.
3. Eat well and keep active
As well as servicing emotive needs and managing our mental state, it is also hugely important to look after ourselves physically and eat well. As many of us have been working from home over the past few months it can be very tempting to raid the fridge or pick at snacks in the kitchen cabinet. We have all done it! Everything in moderation of course, but you are likely to feel exponentially better and have a lot more energy if you replace unhealthy snacks with balanced, healthy eating. Perhaps try going gluten-free, diary-free, or even a reducing your sugar intake for a month and see how you feel. The challenge is also a good test of will-power and self-discipline. If you complete your challenge you are likely feel a huge sense of reward.
As well as healthy eating, consider spending time working on your fitness levels. As many of us still work from home without a frequent commute, we should have more time to get out and about. Consider taking regular walks, committing to a daily running routine, jumping on a bike and doing a few laps of your local park, or even take up a new sport like tennis for example. Regular exercise produces endorphins- the hormones secreted from the brain and nervous system which reduces pain and boosts pleasure resulting in a feeling of well-being. Exercise will help you to feel better about yourself and can act as a positive source of motivation.
4. Rest and recuperate- avoid ‘burn out’
Spending more time at home still means we have commitments and demands- whether that involves managing heavy workloads, family commitments or financial concerns. The key here is balance. Make sure you organise yourself and your time effectively to ensure you are being as efficient and effective as possible in your daily tasks. Positive routines will pay dividends and provide structure. As you balance out your day and working week, make time to rest, reflect and recuperate. Your body and mind need time to recharge. This is the best way to avoid pressures and commitments getting on top of you. If not managed properly, it can lead to feeling overwhelmed and eventual ‘burn out’. Spend quality time with family and friends and appreciate what you have.
5. Invest in yourself- a period of learning and self-development
Despite living in strange times, we will never get this time back. Live it well. Consider investing in yourself and using this time constructively. This may mean learning a new skill or working on personal self-development. A lot of my contacts I have spoken to lately have used this Covid-19 period to take up a new skill- myself included. Whether that be learning to play an instrument, learning a new language, or subscribing to an online training course. Find the thing you are most interested in or passionate about. This is an excellent time to invest in both yourself and also your long-term future.
Parkside Life Coaching is a Life and Career Coaching business aimed at inspiring, empowering and transforming the lives of mid-to-senior management level professionals for future success. For further information visit www.parksidelifecoaching.co.uk to set up a confidential, no obligation ‘discovery call’ or reach out directly at: [email protected]