During those times, I have felt depressed, anxious, lethargic, and even a loss of creativity. The desire to get away or make it stop can be intense. I have had to power through this 6-month hump to find the other side many times before. I want you all to know that if you're feeling these things, it is perfectly normal. There's nothing wrong with you. Based on personal research and experience, the best way to handle this time period is to know that it is temporary. There is light on the other side. It also helps to look back and see what we've accomplished during those 6 months.
This pandemic has fundamentally changed the way our society--and even the world--operates, bringing on a "New Normal." We've learned new ways to do grocery shopping, teaching, learning, holding meetings, doing business, and so many other things. Human beings are the most adaptable creatures on Earth. It hasn't been easy, but we've done it. Together we'll have the strength and will to keep going. There is no benefit in ramming against the 6-month wall and trying to knock it down. It will break in its own in time. Instead, find out or remember what lets you relax.
Everyone has their own way of destressing. For some, it is religion, or reading a book, or spending time with friends and family. I encourage all of you to think about what does it for you, and go out and do so safely. If you enjoy riding a bike--motorized or pedal--or maybe putting on some headphones and jamming out, maybe playing that game on your phone or computer or a board game with your family... Do it. Find some time this week, and re-center yourself. Know that while it may seem dark, and the path unending for now, it IS temporary.
The news and the media paint a dank picture. That's their job and how they make money. Facebook is rife with stories both true and false. I won't tell you what to believe, but encourage you to do your own research before sharing that post from Uncle Fred. As we head into winter, the days will get shorter, colder, and darker. There are still things that must be done during this time. Work. Teach. Cook. Pay bills. Exercise. Don't expect to suddenly be sparklingly ecstatic because you've read my words. I wish I had that power... But by doing the things that help you find yourself, by meeting obligations, and by being kind to family, friends, and even coworkers, we'll come out the other side of this in better shape than we went in.
If you've ever listened to the safety briefing before a flight, they tell you to take care of yourself before helping others. The same is true here. Find yourself. Be kind. Know that this will end. Take heart. We have navigated this harrowing global disaster for over 6 months. We have learned, we continue to love, and happiness can be found if we but look for it, even in these rough conditions. If nothing else, this is hard evidence that we have what it takes to grow, persevere, evolve, and make this world a better place.
