New Habits from COVID-19 and the New Normal

Thank you for creating this discussion Teresa @hopeful33250. I've always tried to smile and be cheerful when I'm out shopping, walking or anywhere that I don't know people. The COVID-19 restrictions have put a crimp in life as we had been enjoying it and I noticed a lot of people that were outright nasty to store clerks when this started. As it progressed and as I think people realized what a dire situation we are in I've seen a lot of people going the extra mile to help their friends, neighbors and strangers. If I could choose one thing I've learned during this time, it's to be more patient and smile, smile, smile....and say thank you to all of those essential people out there working keeping us alive - from healthcare workers, police, fire departments, city workers, garbage collectors, grocery store clerks, truckers and on and on. So I've learned to smile and say thanks!

@johnbishop Those are just great, John. I think we have all learned to appreciate each other more, but you said it very well!

@hopeful33250 I would hope to continue with the TV off all day so I don’t get overwhelmed by “news.” I’d rather listen to music and go for walks.

That is a great idea, @becsbuddy. Over the past few months we've depended on TV for information, but it has dominated our thinking and in many ways this has been counterproductive to our well being. Thank you for that!

Thank you so much for printing these comments. Each one has reminded me of the way we all should be when we're out among others. . It never hurts to smile and be courteous and polite to others, even if you don't know them.

@hopeful33250 Rarely a reliable source and yes, it is counterproductive. Thank you for saying thus in an appropriate manner.

@becsbuddy I do enjoy my walks when possible. I scope the area to avoid other residents spewing the media news. I stay with music. I will admit my humor is lacking for now. I struggle with those being disrespectful of my personal space in the best of times...I cannot find a hazmat suit anywhere that is soundproof!!!

@johnbishop I have always been one to smile and be helpful when I can. Now I remain in my woman's cave and do not even want to watch the world go by outside. I am appreciative for all that the workers are doing and miss seeing them regularly-for now. I wonder if the workers at the grocery where I shop regularly are okay. Last time I was there the shoppers were wearing masks and being bold and rude. The employees were back to dealing with unappreciative customers. That was 2 weeks ago. I have not been anywhere since then. Now the criminals are those not wearing masks. Yes, the world is upside down-so it seems.

As time goes by, I find myself struggling to stay positive. Seems my neighbors are the same - on our daily walks we try to stay on pleasant topics, but everyone is anxious because they're far from home and family. We stay busy with home projects, and now mask & surgical cap sewing. Then we sit down (at safe distance) on someone's patio in late afternoon and remind ourselves and each other how fortunate we are that we can get through this together instead of isolated in our homes, and still unable to hug family. Zoom and my phone are my lifelines to home -family, friends, volunteer groups - imagine of this was 50 years ago?
Going to walk now.
Stay calm, stay safe, stay busy!
Sue

Yes, @zeiracorp, interactions with people have a lifting experience - no doubt about that. What habit that you developed from COViD-19 that you would like to continue, @zeiracorp?

@sueinmn, you say that you struggle to stay positive. What helps you to get back to positive thoughts?