Stay Safe and Sane During A Crisis

That happened fast didn’t it? There’s no denying it: the world is in crisis right now!

Companies are closing their doors (temporarily) and laying off employees (some permanently). Commerce has ground to a halt, and nearly every country is going into lockdown mode as we try to fight off this widespread viral infection.

Right now, it’s very likely that you’re beginning to feel the beginning effects of this crisis—not the least of which is the anxiety that comes from not knowing what tomorrow may bring. 

As a leader—both in your workplace and at home—it’s important that you do whatever you can to get the situation under control. You may have no control over external factors, but you are in charge of yourself and your response to the crisis.

During this tough time, here is how you can stay safe, calm, and as emotionally, mentally, and financially healthy as possible:

Reach out to your team members.

They’re going to be equally worried, and they’re going to be stressing out over their jobs, their paychecks, the future of your company and projects, and countless other things. As the leader and their boss, you should take time for the people under your charge and make sure to stay connected with them. Listen to their worries, do what you can to help put them at ease and reassure them, and be a connection for them during this difficult time of uncertainty and social distancing. 

Set up a “working from home” routine.

If you’re fortunate enough to be able to work remotely or telecommute, you’ll still be able to keep up with your current work projects or deadlines from the comfort of your bedroom. But that’s not where you should be working! Set up an office space (if you don’t already have one) that is quiet, secluded, and offers you isolation so you can focus on your work. Follow your daily work schedule (minus the commute), and make sure to put in the hours to hit those deadlines or finish those vital projects. 

Conserve supplies.

This doesn’t mean go on strict lockdown or rationing protocols. Instead, it means “be aware that supplies are finite”. Find areas in your home where you might be wasting or using supplies in excess, then make a conscious effort to cut back on your use of those things. It’s not something to do because you’re scared—it just makes good financial sense to be saving! 

Wash your hands and practice good hygiene.

You’re stuck indoors, which hopefully limits your exposure to the virus. Still, you’ll want to take extra precautions to prevent illnesses that could compromise your immune system. Wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds every chance you get. Take regular showers, and make sure to focus on maintaining good hygiene even though you’re stuck indoors. 

Monitor your health.

Pay close attention to any symptoms of illness you may exhibit over the next few weeks. Know the difference between the COVID19 symptoms and those of common colds, coughs, or flus. Don’t freak out at the tiniest cough or sniffle, but be aware of your current health—and that of those in the house with you—so you can take the proper precautions or medications.

Monitor your finances.

This is going to be a “belt-tightening” time for everyone. No industry is safe from the inevitable economic downturn that will result from this crisis. Now is not the time to be making big purchases, spending big, or going over-budget. Find ways to trim back your expenses as much as possible, and live the most frugal life you can. Do that, and you’ll come out the other side in a much better financial situation than most of the rest of the country. 

Find a healthy balance when following the news.

A lot of people freak out because they hear the news throwing big, terrifying numbers at them or making “end of the world” predictions. While you need to follow the news in order to keep up with the latest developments in your country, county, and city, it’s vital that you find a healthy balance. Don’t let the news terrify you or cause anxiety. Just watch enough to keep in the know, then shut it off and get about your regular business. Fear, stress, and anxiety will only make you more prone to illness!

Try for a healthier lifestyle.

That means eating better and more natural food, and cutting junk food and excess sugar from your diet. You should also make it a point to do exercise from home whenever possible—not just for your fitness’ sake, but because exercise can diminish anxiety and reduce stress. Now is a good time to focus on overhauling your lifestyle at home to be healthier!

Sleep more.

You’ve got more time in the comfort of your house, so make it a point to get into a healthy, regular sleep schedule, one that involves at least 7-8 hours of sleep a night. Sleep is vital for keeping your immune system strong, and it will help to decrease your stress and manage anxiety. 

Relax and meditate. You’re in a tough time—heck, we all are—so it’s more important than ever to relax! Find ways to take your mind off the problems in the world, even if those aren’t the most “productive” things you could do. Play video games, watch TV, play board games with your family, FaceTime with friends, or go for a walk (away from people, of course). Sit in your backyard and meditate. Let this be a time when you finally get to do some of the relaxing, enjoyable things you’ve wanted to do but haven’t had the time for. The more you relax, the easier it will be to get through this time safe and sane. 

In addition to being a good leader it is also important to have the tools and solutions to support your family and stay safe during this time.