In an upside-down world, sometimes good news can cause mixed feelings.
For instance, if you or a family member was furloughed, temporarily laid off, or asked to work from home in response to the COVID-19 epidemic, being asked to return to work can be great news—wrapped in fear. With a bow of anxiety on top.
That’s OK. That’s a normal reaction.
Make a Personal Plan
Some states are very slowly starting to reopen work sites, shops, schools, and public spaces. Venturing back into these spaces may cause feelings of fear, worry, and even anger.
It may help you to know that many other people share your anxiety. It’s a healthy response. Use it to motivate yourself to make a solid plan for returning to work. Here are some things you should know before creating your plan:
- How COVID-19 is transmitted.
- Basic infection prevention measures.
- The signs and symptoms of infection.
Execute Your Plan
Now that you have some solid science-backed information, start your plan. The best plan is one that you create and feel you can execute. Below are some suggestions. You can rearrange, skip, or add items as you need or want to. This is your plan.
Make sure you continue to:
- Exercise to reduce stress and boost your immune system.
- Get enough sleep to help your body manage stress and boost your immune system.
- Eat healthy to provide your body with the nutrients it needs to prevent infection.
- Meditate to calm your mind for clear thinking and better focus.
Start working on:
- Figuring out how you will ease back in to work—Create a calendar, step-by-step plan, or tactical report—it doesn’t matter what it is, as long as you have a plan.
- Making household arrangements—Talk to family members about their concerns and expectations. Don’t wait until the day before to line up daycare, meals, etc., if you usually take care of those things.
- Getting your supply list together—Start a list now of the things you want to bring with you.
- Learning to avoid touching your face—Seriously. You would be surprised how often and unconsciously you touch your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Things you can do when back on the work site:
- Discourage coworkers and visitors from using your phone, computer, tools, or other work items. If you must share, be sure to wipe down all surfaces between users. And try not to use others’ items as well.
- Keep a 60%-alcohol (or higher) hand sanitizer at your desk or in your tool bag or pocket.
- Try to maintain space between yourself and coworkers.
- Stay home if you are sick. Ask others to do the same.
- Know and follow your employer’s guidelines about staying safe at work.
Source: The StayWell Company, LLC