The world we live today is quite different from what we expected it to be. I was one of the excited people who welcomed 2020 with so much expectations and hope. I thought it would be moving forward but instead we were stopped when this pandemic happened. We would like to think that it is just temporary but what if things will be different now and we will call it the 'NEW NORMAL'. But still, there's a lot of uncertainty that lie behind. For people who suffered and were affected the most by the pandemic like those who lost their jobs or even loved ones, they don't know what comes after their suffering. But even those who were put into a pause, they also don't know what's next, if it could be good or bad. They say it's better to expect the worst and hope for the best. It is scary to think about the future when you are immobilized. The activities you used to do and your routine are now different and somehow you have to adapt to the change.
So here are some things I have gathered and thought about when dealing with uncertainty during this pandemic.
First, we have to follow the rules. We are required mostly to stay at home for our own safety and we must obey. There are new set of rules that are required for us to do like wearing masks when we are in public places. In line with that, we have to accept the fact that these changes and rules will be for the best of us.
Second, we have to adapt to the changes. Like most of the new chapters in our lives, we seem to adapt automatically to the new changes, like promotion in your job, new baby, new house and lifestyle, etc. It seems like we do not have any choices but to adapt to the new things in our surroundings. Though it is always difficult to change your ways but it's just in the beginning, our body and mind will constantly adapt.
Third, we have to follow or modify a routine. Although we are facing the new changes, we can modify our routine or make a new one. When we were on lockdown or quarantine period, most of us got lost in what to do in a day. We spent the first few days wondering how we can be productive. But eventually, we were able to find a new routine in our daily lives. We were able to cook more, exercise at home, and even do clean-ups in every part of our house. That means, we still need to plan ahead for our day even if we're at home. We need that to stay sane and to manage our anxiety.
Fourth, we have to plan ahead. Though we are faced with uncertainty, more so, we have to plan ahead of our future. We have to think of the things like how to be productive when you've got nothing to do during a quarantine or strategize your life now that this pandemic has hit most of our plans. Whether you are employed or has a business, you need to think of your financial, travel, and household plans ahead. For example, during the quarantine period, I was able to review our household financials and planned on how to save and even grow it (yes, it is possible).
Fifth, we got to have faith. Another thing that grew on me and my family during the quarantine period is our faith. We kept on praying and made a habit like praying the rosary every evening together. It somehow eases our anxiety and build us up in facing the uncertainty and fear of the unknown. It is the best thing you can do alongside with meditation through meditation apps and videos and proper diet and exercise. You will be grateful on how it can strengthen your faith and yourself as well.
I hope these things have helped you in dealing with uncertainty. Remember, it is always best to take things easy and don't rush for results right away. We have to be patient and trust that things will work out. If you have more advices or comments, please feel free to share them.
Love and Peace.
Loca