If you’re one of the lucky ones that’s able to work from home and can shelter in place during the COVID-19 pandemic, you might be feeling like you should be doing something more. I’d argue that you’re doing all that you can, and that instead of doing more, try doing what brings you comfort.
Comfort?
You might be scoffing or snorting at that. Maybe you think you should be working harder, being more productive, doing all that you can.
I’d argue that that is a sure path to stress and burnout. Which is not what we need during a pandemic.
Comfort during a time of trauma, loss, and uncertainty, is what we need.
The more we practice self-care, and give ourselves the comfort that we need, the more we will all stay healthy and be able to help ourselves and each other when it’s really needed.
The amount of anxiety, panic, and grief all around us is palpable. I can feel it. Can you? Giving yourself comfort will help to calm things. By calming yourself, you’re acting as an example to others to also calm themselves.
There will be more lots more work to do in the coming months, but for now, keep healthy by staying home as much as possible, practicing social distancing when you go out, washing your hands frequently and thoroughly, and seeking comfort every day.
To help with this, I’m going to give examples of how I seek comfort through a set of blog posts I’m calling the Life Raft Series. Over the coming weeks, I’ll describe the special books, magazines, music, podcasts, art, and activities that bring me comfort when I’m trying to hang on and make it through this thing called life. They are my life rafts.
I hope reading about what I do to survive will inspire you to seek out what does the same for you.
Remember, you are not alone.
We will get through this.
Together.
