Most of us entered into the year 2020 like we do most other years. Some had some expectations and goals for the year. Some were looking forward to graduations in the family, vacations, concerts and other events. By mid March we realized most of those events would either be cancelled or look entirely different than ever before. Now many are waiting to hear if schools will open in the fall, if and when businesses will reopen, and do you need a face mask or not?
We have been surrounded with uncertainty. The reports on the pandemic vary by professional, news station, and family member! Social distancing of 6 feet and wearing a face mask has become the new normal. As this year began, who knew the newest fashion trend would be face masks! And virtual meetings became a thing overnight! As many began working from home, they are saw the benefits from being home. Will this become more of a trend?
While there is so much uncertainty about the impact of Covid 19, the rippling ramifications may be around for quite a while. We will have to wait and see how everything plays out, the old normal may not return in its entirety. And that is not all bad.
I encourage everyone to focus on the positives rather the uncertainty. For example, I think we are all more aware of everyone washing hands, facilities are wiping areas down, hand sanitizer is everywhere. Many gathered together for meals because everything else was cancelled. Families were bonding better than they have been in years.
So while uncertainty remains in many areas, we do have many areas of life that have been shaken up a little but are having a positive impact on our daily lives. And we are able to see how resilient we have become. Yes, we may be experiencing a new normal, but we all are a work in progress!
So stay the course. Be patient. Assume some changes will stay and be ready to adapt! Look for the positives!