Today as I walked into the office, yes I actually went into work, I sighed. Weeks ago I thought I would be one of the first struck with COVID-19. I have a weak immune system and am vulnerable to illness of any kind. Every time I leave the house I know it’s a risk.
Every day I stay home I know I’m also risking my mental health. It’s a balancing act, a fine line I walk. I’ll be working from home for the next few days. I’ll return to the office on Friday. Working gives me a purpose during this crazy time. It keeps me focused on something other than fear and sickness.
I know so many who are out of work. The last few days multiple offices in our building have laid off key staff members. I have friends that are now out of work because of COVID-19.
I know I’m in a unique position right now. Managing multiple roles at once, trying to get it all done. I’m essential and needed. We’re getting busier due to the demand being placed on hospitals and the fact patients are afraid to go to hospitals now and are looking for other alternatives. I go to work and feel guilty that I’m out of the house while others are feeling bored and would love to be at work. I feel guilty that others are struggling to get by. I hate that my family doesn’t feel safe after I’ve left the house and then come home, possibly exposing them to germs.
It’s such a strange time and hard place to be in. But I’m also grateful for so much right now. I was relieved this morning that it’s been a few weeks and I’m still healthy. I’m grateful that I not only have a job, but a thriving one. I’m grateful my family is all safe at home while I’m at work. I currently don’t have to worry about what time I need to be home to pick up the boys from school or take them to or from sports or other activities. It’s been freeing.
Whatever side of this you find yourself in right now, try to find the positives. If you are not working, what can you gain from this time off? Can you invest in learning something new? Maybe take some free online lynda.com classes to help advance into a new field or change careers when this is over. Check out what resources the library has online as well.
If you are working, make sure to document all you are doing so when things settle down you can ask your boss for a raise, stating what you did to help with disaster relief, recovery or preparedness to help the company during this time that was vital to their success.
If you are stuck at home with family, make time to enjoy them! We don’t know how long this season will last. But, kids are only kids for so long. Invest in them. Build forts. Make shadow puppets. Color. Paint pictures or do a puzzle together. Have fun.
If you are finding yourself not feeling so great, mentally or physically, reach out to your provider and get help! Don’t ignore symptoms. If someone you love seems to be struggling, try to get them to get help. Let them know you love them and are there for them.
This too shall pass. No matter what, be grateful for what you do have. There’s always something worth smiling for, even rainy days have rainbows.