The Covid-19 pandemic has enveloped the human race with uncertainties, the non-acceptance of which can manifest in emotions like sadness, anger, fear, or grief, like a response to the loss of normalcy depending on the individual's tolerance level.
We can empower ourselves to face uncertainties by accepting them, which is the counterintuitive secret to happiness.
Acceptance is not resignation. The famous "Serenity Prayer" quoted as "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, courage to change the things I can, and wisdom to know the difference" helps us understand human limitations and the mantra of a happy life.
Here are some strategies to cope with the prolonged uncertainties to stay in the game.
First, we should maintain our daily living routines. Disrupted routines may make "work-life balance" sound mythical.
Maintaining conscious creative routines, such as getting up at the same time every day, getting showered and dressed up in the morning, as well as exercise, can keep us active and engaged, providing a sense of normality.
Second, we should plan our time well. Time allotment for the various tasks does not need to be strict but instead flexible.
However, it is important to prioritise the tasks. The apt action at this hour is to invest in "yourself". It can be joining online courses, learning new skills, trying new things and investing in relationships.
Third, as social beings, we need to connect with others. We can use online platforms to stay connected with our dear ones. Distancing ourselves from negative social media messages that are not based on facts is essential to maintaining a positive mood. Keeping a healthy balance on the use of social media is crucial.
Fourth, healthy eating, sleep hygiene and exercise are essential. A balanced healthy diet has a direct impact on mood. Good sleep hygiene and routine help us sync with our biological clock.
For instance, one should go to sleep, wake up and get out of bed at the same time each day, stay active in the day, restrict caffeine intake, avoid electronics and bright lights in the bedroom.
Regular exercise has a vital and positive role in our physical and mental health. Online exercise classes and clubs are good options to stay active.
When structuring your daily routine, make time for fun home activities and virtual meet-ups. You can do this by playing games, do things to make you laugh and have fun, as well as singing and dancing.
Self-care includes any activity that is caring, nurturing and healthy for oneself, such as yoga, exercise and sleep.
Fifth, whether we like it or not, we are constantly observed by people around us, especially our children at home. They see and learn from us. We can be their role model by first accepting our emotions and being open about our feelings. We can also label them.
For example, "I am worried about my job, but I have decided to think differently. Maybe it will open a new opportunity. I am frustrated about the situation, but it's okay to feel like that. I
will continue to do the best I can."
We can structure the day by staying connected with family and friends, limiting our time with gadgets, exercising regularly, enjoying a good sleep, adopting healthy eating habits, making time for fun and leisure activities, maintaining calmness and adopting a problem-solving mindset.
Sixth, we should practise gratitude. We need to focus on things we are grateful for. Such reflections of gratitude can fill us with positivity. Maintaining a daily gratitude diary can help us notice at least one to two things we are grateful for each day.
These strategies will help us cope with the prolonged uncertainties brought by the pandemic.
The writer is a senior lecturer at the Faculty of Medicine, AIMST University