One Year Later: Top Tips for Coping in the New Normal

After a year of quarantine restrictions, social distancing, and difficult times, the world is now living in what is called the new normal. It is a lifestyle where wearing masks is commonplace, social gatherings are restricted, people stay three feet apart in public, and most people stay at home. Work and education in the new normal have also transferred online to minimize face-to-face interactions. All of these are now the norm to stop the virus from spreading.    

By now, most people have already adjusted to this new lifestyle. However, for those who might still be struggling with coping with the new normal, here are the top tips learned from the past year to help you adjust to this new way of living.

Create a new routine

Since outdoor and social activities are restricted, you need to get creative and tweak your routine to fit your new lifestyle. For example, if you can’t go to the gym, use online fitness apps or watch home workout videos that don’t require any equipment to bring the gym to your home. What is important is being flexible and finding new ways to create a sense of normalcy during these difficult times.

Socialize in new ways

Thanks to technology, people can stay connected while social distancing. Online video calls via Zoom and Google Meet have become a popular way to socialize and have fun online. 51Talk even hosts a monthly live virtual event called The Yellow Tomorrow Show on Facebook to gather and entertain everyone despite being far apart. Use social media and online platforms to reach out to family and friends and meet new people. This way, you don’t have to feel alone.

Take a break

Remote work and education in the new normal have become challenging as adults and students try to balance tasks, chores, family, and more, all under one roof. As a result, most households experience stress, burnout, and anxiety. 

When you have too much on your plate, remind yourself that it's alright to take a break or do one step at a time. After all, we are living in extraordinary times. Set realistic goals and allow yourself to be flexible as situations change.

Take care of yourself

Similarly, it’s important to take steps to boost your immune system and care for your mental and emotional well-being. Avoid skipping meals, eat more vegetables, and keep yourself hydrated. Also, get enough sleep, take small breaks from work or studying, spend quality time with your family online or offline, and don’t forget to laugh. Do what you think will be best to keep your body healthy and your mind at peace.

Seek help

Remember that you are not alone and that it’s completely fine to seek help in these trying times. The National Center for Mental Health also offers online health services to those who need professional help dealing with stress, depression, or anxiety. It’s also important to seek help or support from family and friends to help you cope.

Moving forward in the new normal

As the pandemic continues to loom over most parts of the world without any signs of slowing down, it’s best to start accepting that this situation is truly the new normal. The world will have to continue moving forward and adapting to the new situation for it to survive.  

That’s why 51Talk, the leading online English education platform, opens its doors to Filipino professionals who need help earning in the new normal. With 51Talk, you can teach English online in your own time, allowing you to balance your time and responsibilities while earning safely at home. Sign up with 51Talk today, and find the stability that you need in the new normal.