Five Tips for Transitioning to Post-Pandemic Life
1. Connect with your support system.
During times of stress, connecting with your support system is one of the most important factors in improving your mental and emotional health. Whether it is calling a friend, meeting a family member for a meal, or taking a walk with a colleague during your lunch hour, human connection is so powerful and important in helping us feel less alone.
2. Be kind — and patient — with yourself.
Be patient with yourself when things do not go exactly as planned. You might find yourself trying to jump right back into your pre-pandemic schedule, but things might feel different now. Pay attention to those feelings of self-shame or blame when you cannot accomplish everything on your to-do list and continue to show yourself grace and compassion.
3. When rebuilding your routine, be mindful of what works for you.
Just because you were doing something before the pandemic, doesn’t mean it is something that works for you now. One positive takeaway from the pandemic is that it allowed people to realize that some things they were doing with their lives were not things they wanted or needed. Create routines that work with your new schedule, your new goals, or your new mindset.
4. Prioritize your wellbeing.
As you plan the end of your summer schedule and begin looking towards the start of the Fall semester, remember to prioritize time for your wellbeing. This may look like making a therapy appointment, heading to the park to read for an afternoon or developing an exercise routine. Choose to spend your time by doing things and seeing people that bring you joy and support your emotional, mental, and physical wellbeing.
5. Go at your own pace.
For many, life feels much different today than prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. You may not feel as comfortable in social settings or the idea of hopping on an airplane may give you anxiety. Do not force yourself to get back into your previous habits and routines if it does not feel comfortable for you. Perhaps look at this time as a “new normal” and develop new routines that align with your current level of comfort and values.
If you feel that your fears go beyond general nervousness and awkwardness, a professional can help you work through it all. Currently registered students can reach out to one of WCC’s personal counselors by contacting the Counseling department at 734-677-5223.