When will this end? We all have been working together to maintain social isolation; working from home, closing locally owned businesses, avoiding crowds, canceling events that we all look forward to, closing schools; supporting one another. Most of us are tiring of it, or didn’t want to do it in the first place. Let me tell you, every choice you make to stay home, isolate, it makes a difference, it saves a life, it keeps our community safe. As a local physician in our community, my short answer to when will this end is “not yet.” Do not let your guard down, do not start mingling more. If anything, intensify your efforts as we expect numbers to rise over the next few weeks.
So then what? Maybe you have exhausted all the activities you can think of for the kids, you’ve read the books you have at home, you’ve baked, you’ve crafted, you have video-called friends and family. At first it felt like a step back from the rigorous and busy schedule of life, but now it’s a burden, an inconvenience. You are not alone. This isn’t easy for anyone, but it is so worth it to protect our community and our loved ones.
With that, I have a suggestion. Take this extra time at home to reflect, to grow, to make yourself better. Step back and consider that when we return to “life as usual,”what parts of your life are worth going back to. Which brings you joy, positivity, progress, and is for the good of others? Which brings you sadness, negativity? Can you make the choice to let those parts of your life go, start over new?
Along those lines, what a perfect time to start a new habit or routine in your life. Start daily exercise, journaling, meditation, yoga, prayer. Teach yourself to cook healthy meals at home, bake, write, draw. Step away from electronics and be present. Find a new hobby or habit that enhances your life, helps others, gives you purpose. Instead of thinking of it as social distancing, find ways to socialize from a distance. Call a friend, send a letter to family, video call. As Spring weather rolls in, go outside, move, but all while following the rules of social distancing. Some say it takes 21 days to establish a new routine or habit. Realistically, in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic, and where we currently sit as a community, state and nation, I will dare to say you have at least a good 21 days to get a good start. Use it wisely, use it to better yourself and others.
In conclusion, we as a medical community, beg you to stay home and truly only leave home if absolutely necessary. Find ways to shop online, pick up orders, redefine what is truly essential. We will continue to show up to take care of our community and ask for you to commit to staying home for us.
