In the face of uncertainty

It has been a difficult few days with more ahead. Many, me included, are expressing feelings of fatigue and uncertainty. 

Many elements of our everyday life has shifted overnight. Things we do automatically and quickly, with little or no thinking like opening a door, shaking hands, giving a hug, touching your face, gathering together to connect socially or tackle the next project at work have become things we being asked to stop. Stopping will help flatten the curve faster and help us collectively move through COVID-19 as swiftly and efficiently as possible. 

All of this might sound simple but is it’s not as easy as it sounds. You might be wondering, why isn’t this easy? Psychologist Daniel Kahneman and his research partner, Amos Tversky, deeply understand human thinking. They have developed the idea of Fast and Slow thinking. Fast thinking are those things that you do that are routine and familiar. Slow thinking are the things you do where you need to think “how do I do this”, you are intentional and it is not routine or automatic. At this moment we are being asked to do more slow thinking, break what is habit and routine and break away from being as closely physically connected. Using more of our brain power than usual to think slowly adds to fatigue and feeling stressed. So what can you do? Below you will find a list of things to consider as we work to physically disconnect so that we can come together and do the right thing to help one another.

• Stay hydrated, drink extra amounts of water to consistently flush your system
• Get outside and take a brisk walk to get your endorphins working
• Read the book you wanted to but haven’t had time for
• Go to bed early and get some extra rest
• Listen to your favorite music
• Make some new recipes
• Enjoy meals together that are less rushed
• Stream a humorous or inspirational movie
• Video chat to stay connected 
• Reach out to a friend or neighbor to check in by phone, text or video
• Check on an elderly neighbor, maybe even leaving a prepared meal on their door step
• Connect with an on organization around you that is organizing to help those that are most vulnerable and see if you can you lend a hand to talk to them and connect with those who are isolated

Wishing you and those around you health, strength and courage as we all face uncertainty.