It’s obvious how our lives have been transformed by the pandemic. But even as we’re beginning to move closer to “normal” in most areas, there is still work to be done … as well as some unintended consequences.
We shouldn’t underestimate those consequences … and we should be patient with ourselves as we begin to move about the world more freely.
Humans are creatures of habit. And there’s research to suggest that a new habit can be formed in anywhere from 21 to 66 days.
Well, we’ve been living in a more isolated, restricted world for more than a year. Physically and emotionally, we’re more conditioned to isolation than we are to socialization.
And that is to say, returning to a more social world with physical and emotional connection is going to seem weird for a while.
We’ve heard a lot about the “new normal.” But what about the “old normal?” Will that ever seem normal again?
I believe it will … but not right away.
So my advice for you today is to be kind and patient to yourself. If something feels weird or not right, give yourself permission not to do it … or do it some other way that feels safer.
Take your time. Continue to take care of yourself. Don’t feel guilty if certain interactions that used to be second nature now feel awkward.
We’ve all been through a lot. And we’ve adapted to new ways of doing things … in some instances, better ways of doing things.
The trick will be to take the best of both worlds and combine them. And that’ll take time.
As we’ve learned, “normal” is a moving target. Don’t be afraid to move with it.
Your friend and coach,
Paul F Sweatt CPT
Train Smart. Train Hard. Train Safe. Train to Sweatt.