As we self-quarantine or self-isolate after a trip to Italy, we are slightly less exposed to some of the mania and anxiety out in the world. Sure, we see our fair share of the news online and on TV. However, we’re not focused on distancing ourselves from others while shopping, we’re not looking at empty and sparse shelves instead of our favorite grocery items, and we’re not having to resolve issues related to teaching children or childcare. The reality, after a great trip to Italy, is that we’re getting off pretty easily.
I know many folks hear the public “noise” out there, and I read a good article addressing this. It suggested doing just the opposite by investing time in quiet endeavors. Being mindful of one’s own activities, meditating, spend time in a thoughtful hobby, one that helps you escape the movement of time. What is that for you?
I hope that once we become educated about the public, that is – global health, understanding that we are all truly interconnected, we may have other realizations beyond handwashing. A realization that we can implement, AFTER the pandemic is in our rearview mirror. A realization that we truly need each other. We will have utilized all forms of social media in manic proportions. We will have communicated by Zoom, Skype, FaceTime, WhatsApp and more. We will have had virtual meetings, funerals, book launches, and every other personal, professional and life event. We will have made financial sacrifices and adjusted our lifestyle. The realization that we will be ready to progress, or shall I say, regress to more intimate, warm and familiar communication.
My hope and wish is that once COVID-19 is behind us, we will embrace – (and yes, I specifically selected that word) – a life that may be more genuine than in our past. We will recognize the value of consumption and purchasing goods that fuel our economy, yet also be more aware of what is superfluous in our lives. Community cancellations will send us home to nest, and to once again enjoy meals together, to clean closets of the unnecessary, or retain those items that “spark joy”, per Marie Kondo.
We will re-learn how to communicate beyond the superficial. We will draw close those folks within our Circle of Trust, and add others to it. We will stop reinforcing and enabling toxic people, behaviors, and communication that is not inclusive. We will share our thoughts openly – not so direct that they’re hurtful, yet not so passive that they’re in the “bless your heart” category. We will call our friends and not just text. We will FaceTime and not just call. We will meet face-to-face. We will gather with those we care about and wish to know better. We will hug again after all the waves and social distancing. We will search for depth in our relationships that are not only helpful but healthy for our longevity and well-being.
Now more than ever, I’m putting aside the vulnerability I feel about writing a book – exposing my personal stories, experiences, and philosophy. I’m feeling more resolved than ever that the message is one I am proud of and believe in. We do need to live life to the fullest. We do need to use positive nudges to implement small improvements in our behavior over a long period of time. We do need emergency savings and then some. We do need to eat healthfully to build and maintain our immune system. We do need to move our body and brain for overall health and longevity. We do need others, and we do need to tell others we care for them – and then care for them. And, we do need to have fun, laugh at ourselves and with others. This is exactly the right time for the message of Five Alive, and focusing on Finance, Food, Fitness, Friends, and Fun.