There are so many reservations I have on this epidemically historical experience before us. Just to share a bit of emotion... I'm concerned for my neighbors (those w/shelter and our homeless community), my loved ones, the sick (elderly and shut-in), small business owners, the likely rise of poverty POST COVID-19 outbreak, the future of our United States government. And of course, essential personnel which in my opinion is not limited to the medical staff and first respondent's but also payroll departments, the staff that keep food (for humans & pets), household products and immune supplements shelved. Transportation staff, postmasters and environmental specialists. So many persons out here wearing their invisible cape and I am SO here for it!
My suggested, what "to and NOT to do" during the next few weeks!
- Your bill collector offering a extension on payments, cool! However, if your current budget allows you the opportunity to pay it. Do so! Reason? This too shall past. No need to be put yourself in a deeper financial disadvantage because let's face it... 2020 came with a bang, stay ready!
- On the flip side, having a issue paying your bills with the workplace closed? Reach out to your account holders, everyone is affected one way or another.
- Next shopping haul (and I using the word "haul" lightly), I do not mean purchase ALL ten toilet tissue packages on the shelf. But don't forget the pet food, hygiene products, vitamins, board games or activities since you guys are home may as well create!
- Leave the house parties for another time! This is not the time to show off your new living room set. Make video calling such as Skype, Zoom or via the social media apps the center stage.
- RSVP'd to an event or appointments scheduled within the upcoming weeks? Expect scheduling changes. Or if the event (or appointment) was not postponed yet you have opt'd to abide by the "social distancing" request? Deliver that updated change to the host or the like. I know you are grown and able to change your mind but this is simply out of respect, communicate if your plans to attend has changed.
- If sick, someone in your home sick STAY HOME! If labeled as essential personnel. Nonetheless, you're not feeling 100%... you're more of a liability that an asset. Trust me, your coworkers will thank you for taking that approach.
- Change those air filters in your home and vehicle as needed.
- Up your water, electrolytes and vitamin intake!
- Get some fresh air! Yes, "social distancing" is a thing but not opening those windows or going for a walk! Fresh air is good for your immune system.
- Change out those disinfecting rags! For obvious reasons, you're cleaning much more so... yeah, if you are still cleaning those door knobs with the rags from last month AT LEAST throw them in the washer for a spin!
- Practice what should be normal hand-washing (w/ soap for 20 seconds, coughing in the dab position or a tissue and/or sneezing (SAME energy.)
- Cleaning behavior at home in common areas, your personal space and in the workplace. Be mindful, symptoms of the virus are appearing 2 to 14 days after or in some transmissions not at ALL!
- Check on a friend! Young or seasoned in age, I am telling you.. stock pile or NOT no one was ready for this!
- SUPPORT online businesses! The household name business will be alright. And if you must go out to eat or shop, consider locally owned businesses, our community needs them.
Take this moment to re-invent yourself, your business, take a virtual course, mail postcards, finish your taxes, complete the Census 2020 which can be submitted online, those who worship, if your place of worship offers a online service... robe up and log on, binge watch that show that everyone is raving about! Or simply visit my website, I have a load of items (books, services and pleasures) that can occupy your interest (use coupon code: HeyPostman) to explore and it's so much more that you can apply during this time of PURE self-care.
For ALL CoronaVirus Outbreak updates, visit the CDC. Any symptoms, contact a medical provider preferably prior to going to the facility.