Adjusting To The New Ordinary Can Be Challenging
Getting Used to the New Ordinary
The COVID-19 panic has resulted in significant changes to our daily lives, changes that have frequently occurred suddenly and abruptly. Adjustments to one's life can bring a slew of new experiences and feelings. At times, the adjustment may feel seamless, but the path to the new normal may be choppy or downright rocky at times!
Specific individuals may find themselves in survival mode, acquiring the information and resources necessary to perform effectively at school, job, person, and interactions with others. Others may be establishing new routines. It may entail attempting to counteract social isolation for some. For many, this entails learning to live (or re-live) with friends, family, partners, or housemates, which is not always straightforward. I frequently hear people lament their inability to create a distraction-free home workspace conducive to efficient and practical work. I feel as though even easy things require twice the time, effort, and energy, which can be rather taxing. I've had to practice extreme self-compassion and patience recently. Others may be experiencing the exhaustion, frustration, despair, anger, grief, and worry associated with adjustment. Specific individuals (and I hope many of you are out out there) have successfully navigated the adjustment process and are finding comfort in their new ordinary. There are a few critical points to keep in mind in all of this.
1. This is an uncertain and transient circumstance!
It's fine not to feel OK. It is also OK (and encouraged) to seek assistance and support! Consider this a period of reflection on who you want to be.
Concentrate on what you can control. It's essential to stay informed, and it's necessary to pause COVID-19-related talks, news, and information.
2. Adjustment is a process that takes different forms for different persons.
This procedure is not linear or well-defined. Patience and flexibility are essential.
Please be mindful of where you are in the process (a little self-compassion goes a long way) as well as where others are. It's normal to be curious about where your friends, family, and others are in their process and to try to grasp their goals and needs right now. Don't forget to let them know what you want and need!
3. Establishing a schedule can be beneficial!
Make time for your physical and mental health, pleasure, creativity, social connection, and stress release in addition to your daily work.
4. Set boundaries
Setting boundaries with family members, friends, and colleagues is very acceptable.
I hope that by reading this, you understand you are not alone in your journey to finding a new ordinary. I hope that you've discovered some sense of tranquility amidst the turmoil, and you've gained some insight into the world around you and yourself.
For more information, visit www.integratedbalance.org.
