This article is part of our ‘Covid-19 & the Job Market’ resource pack. View more here.

In dire times, when uncertainty is a given, it’s easy to fall into the trap of negativity especially when we are constantly being bombarded with unpleasant news. However, it is essential to practise not just staying physically healthy but also mentally.

Set priorities

In times of crisis, it is the time when you realise what truly is important. Much like a machine reset, when you’ve been going in overdrive and suddenly you’re brought to a halt – it is then when you understand what’s really important – your health and the safety and of your loved ones  A sudden shift in your employment and financial wellbeing – whether big or small, may cause confusion and anxiety. Here you must be patient with yourself and those around you. It will take time to adjust and understand what requires doing. There is no guidebook for situations like these – so allow yourself mistakes. It is also important to understand that whatever you decide was based on the information you had at the time.

Be patient

Be patient with your employer or employees – this is a stressful time. Try and put yourself in other people’s shoes and understand the different problems and worries others might have. This is a worldwide problem so being just a bit more understanding will, in the end, make us better. We are all in this together and this is a time for solidarity.

Change does not mean an abrupt halt

Although it’s tempting to flip the table and call it a day – if history taught us anything it would be that the survivors are the ones who simply do not give up. A crisis just needs to be addressed with a different mindset. Be attentive to what is happening around you and respond to it. Successful businesses in this period are the ones who understand that people’s priorities have shifted. After all this is over, people will remember who smiled at them, who helped them when they most needed and who was simply there. If you try to cash in when people are most down and in times of crisis people will remember it. Some businesses chose to refurbish, others went for e-commerce and introduced delivery options, others showed social responsibility and offered help and support to those who need it the most.

Stay active

Many trainers and gym enthusiasts are offering online classes, some of which for free to keep you active even when home. It’s a well-known fact that exercise releases endorphins which we all crave in this not-so-happy time.

Work on your personal projects

If you were planning on taking some days off to get work done on your house – now is the time. Many home improvement shops offer deliveries and ironmongeries are still open for the odd nail or drill bit. Get your wardrobe sorted, get your pantry organised. If you ever thought “I’ll do that when I have time…”, now’s the time. Projects will give you something to look forward to and soon you’ll be seeing being stuck in as a blessing and not curse. What’s more, by staying in, you’re saving lives!

Lend a helping hand

Offer to deliver groceries to your elderly neighbour or grandparents. Call a friend who may be lonely. Practise social distancing, but remain connected! At the end of the day, doing a good deed will make you feel better too.

Share positive things

Next time you hear something negative from a friend who heard it from someone else, make sure the buck stops with you. Don’t share anything that didn’t come from a reputable news source or official sources. You’re not helping! Keep yourself informed, practise common sense and good hygiene.

Share this with someone who needs to hear this.