In these days of COVID-19, social distancing is critical. To help prevent the virus from spreading further, everyone must do their part to avoid physical contact with others. While you need to adjust your normal routine, writer Jamie Friedlander says you can still stay connected to others during this time of isolation.
In this issue of Promotional Consultant Today, we share Friedlander’s guidance for staying connected to others.
1. Talk to one friend each day. Be sure to reach out to one family member or friend every day. While GChat and texting are perfectly acceptable, Friedlander says it’s even better to hear someone’s voice on the phone or see them through FaceTime. “You don’t need to meet anyone to feel connected,” says Viktor Sander, a social psychology consultant with SocialPro. “It’s all about reciprocally opening up to each other, sharing experiences and making the other person feel heard. And that’s something you can do over the phone or internet.”
2. Send someone you love a handwritten letter. Grab a notecard you have lying around and send a handwritten note to a family member or friend on your mind. Not only will the letter brighten their day, but it’ll likely spark a conversation once they receive it in the mail, says Friedlander.
3. Foster connection with those in your home. It’s challenging being confined to our homes. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, we must avoid meeting friends for dinner or hanging out with co-workers at happy hours. Friedlander says it’s easy to think of what we’re missing out on, but we must also remember what we’re gaining through this unexpected time at home. Take time to strengthen relationships with those in your home, whether you’re spending time with your kids, a significant other or a roommate.
4. Reach out to friends who have depression or anxiety. Social isolation is hard for everyone, but especially for those facing anxiety or depression. Friedlander recommends texting friends and family members to let them know you’re thinking of them. Even if you don’t get a response, don’t stop reaching out. When it comes to your anxious friends, Friedlander says it’s important to avoid talking about anything coronavirus-related that will worsen their anxiety.
5. Have a family member read your child a bedtime book through FaceTime. If your children are used to more social interaction with family members and friends, Friedlander suggests having one of their grandparents, aunts or uncles read them a bedtime book from afar.
6. Host a virtual watch party with friends. To keep your spirits up and stay connected from afar, try watching a show or movie with your friends. Through Netflix Party, you can stream a show at the same time as your friends. Then, do a group video chat once it’s over to talk about it. If you’re not in the mood to binge-watch a show, try hosting a virtual book club instead.
7. Stream a class. For many, daily socialization involves not only chatting with co-workers and spending time with family and friends, but also heading to a barre class or a running club. Keep the socialization alive through a virtual class. Many fitness studios have begun offering remote exercise classes, so hop online and see what’s available.
Social distancing and social isolation can feel uncomfortable, especially when you’re used to being around lots of people in your day. Whether you’re spending time in solitude or you’re working while caring for your family at home, look for ways to reach out to others. Aim to do something each day that keeps you connected to the world outside.
Compiled by Audrey Sellers
Source: Jamie Friedlander is a freelance writer based in Chicago and the former features editor of SUCCESS magazine. Her work has been published in The Cut, VICE, Inc., The Chicago Tribune and Business Insider, among other publications.
