Keep Calm and Carry On

So that means that we still have our jobs,  while a lot of people are not working.  I appreciate knowing I have an income,  but I am afraid of what could happen by working around other people. 

Any advice for those of us who are lucky to still be working.

Lucky?

Dear Lucky?

Strange times we are in, it’s like an apocalyptic movie, without zombies and flesh-eating bacteria’s.  But there is always a bright side somewhere right.  

First things first, it may feel as though you are choosing between your life and your livelihood but be smart and make wise choices.  Your concerns are valid, especially if you are in a targeted group that is likely to contract COVID-19.  Be smart and make wise choices.

First and foremost, take care of yourself, family, friends and acquaintances then your job.  Ask yourself if you are doing all that you can to keep yourself safe?

• Washing your hands regularly for 20 seconds with soap and water
• Maintaining a six foot social distance
• Avoiding touching your face
• Drinking water
• Nourish yourself with healthy foods

By doing your part in maintaining your health you minimize the likelihood of contracting and or spreading COVID-19.

A little something about companies that are authorized to remain operational during this epidemic.  These companies operate because they are deemed essential.  These companies are aware that their ability to continue to operate is a privilege and that they need to ensure the health of their employees in order to continue operating.  Many have put into place an abundance of cautionary measures to ensure safety.  For example:  limiting visitors access to their businesses, recommending non-essential employees to work virtually, directing those who are ill to stay home, reducing the areas where employees congregate to allow for social distancing.  They have hired cleaning companies to come in and disinfect high touch areas.  Barriers are being put up between customers and employees….  Companies are becoming creative in finding ways to operate safely.

There is no reason to politely shake someone’s hand, high five, fist bump or any other greeting that will result in your breaking the six feet recommendation.  Think in terms that everyone you come across is carrying COVID-19 and you need to keep your distance.      You don’t know who is infected and who is not.  I mean unless you have some superpower that can detect COVID-19 and can safely walk amongst the population without contracting or spreading the virus.  In which case you are probably some sort of stable genius. 

So what’s the takeaway.  The take away is that you cannot depend on anyone to keep you safe.  That you are best course of action is to keep yourself updated and informed about COVID-19.  Do not panic and start stockpiling toilet paper and water.  (I don’t understand why people are stock piling toilet paper but that’s another article.) 

And here’s the bright side,  this is a great time to drive if you have to go to the west side because 405 is wide open.  Lately above us are brilliant blue skies with billowing clouds, the air is fresh, crisp and clean.  Neighbors you may never have seen before are out walking, for no reason other than to breathe in the nostalgic clean air.  People are at home cooking meals they use to make or learned from their parents before they became too busy.   Children can be heard playing in their back yards.   People at CVS, are keeping their social distance and not complaining about it.  There are friends and family checking in with one another.   Is it time to read that book you wanted, or write that story.   It feels as though the world has slowed down and as we are forced to slow down with it, we are able to cherish the common, the simple the mundane.  Secretly wishing that life could sustain this simpler life. 

Yes, take COVID-19 seriously.  Follow the recommended steps that doctors and scientist are providing.  Be smart, stay safe and of course be appreciative that you have your health and an income.  But find joy in these days too.

And just as importantly…

I've got my health – Sung by Bette Midler

CDC - How to prepare

How to protect yourself in the workplace during a pandemic