Let’s Keep Our Distance: The Dos and Don’ts of Staying Connected During a Pandemic
Over the last six — or is it seven… or already eight? 😩 — months that we’ve been living in the pandemic time-loop that is 2020, being “together” has meant spending a lot of time either alone with a screen, or in a home with our families or roommates. And it’s been hard. It’s been boring. It’s been lonely.
But we’ve figured out ways to stay safely and responsibly together while distant. And there is no reason for us to stop now. Seriously, the pandemic hasn’t ended, so we need to continue to keep our distance.
Here are a few dos and don’ts of staying connected:
DO — Put in some face-to-FaceTime
We are privileged to live during the time of the video call. And by this point, most people have found that one wall that makes their home look good, so invite your friends over for a hangout … of the digital variety.
DON’T — See how many people you can fit in a room
Just because you can fit a bunch of people in a room with two metres between them doesn’t mean you should. You may be able to fit your fist in your mouth, but it seems like an uncomfortable and unnecessary choice. And filling a room during a pandemic is an unnecessary choice too. If there are capacity limits in areas where you’re spending your time, respect them.
DO — Call your mum
She loves you. She worries about you. Call your mum. But remember that you can call other people too. During the pandemic I’ve definitely learned to appreciate using my phone as a… phone. And I HAAAAAAAATE talking on the phone — but hearing a friend’s voice is kind of nice after spending all day staring at a screen.
DON’T — Burst someone’s bubble
We all need our bubbles. Having a small set of regular people we can interact with can be a major mental health boost. However, we have to be mindful of the reality that each person in our personal bubble has their own bubble, and it could include someone who is at risk. Keep your bubble small and don’t burst anyone else’s.
DO — Embrace your inner Jim & Pam
The art of the air-high-five is a fine one. It involves timing, coordination, intuition — and a sizable distance between you and your partner in crime. It’s possible to remain in tune with the people around you and to show it while keeping a reasonable distance. And if air-high-fives aren’t your thing, do what is. Maybe it’s an over-the-top touchless handshake alternative, a crazy wave or a noble salute. You do you.
DON’T — Cut yourself off
This is still a weird and tough time. We will get through it, though, and while we should keep our physical distance from the majority of people around us, please remember that you’re not alone in this. We’re all going through it. Words have weight, so even if you can’t hug a friend right now, talk, write, and share how you’re doing. Ask how they’re doing. You don’t need to touch to have a touching moment.
This year isn’t normal. It isn’t going to be. And honestly, that’s OK. This is a moment for our generation to step up and really show how resilient and capable we are. We’ve got this.
