It would be perilous to want to predict what will be done in the coming months, but with vaccination and gradual deconfinement, a return to work in person now seems to want to materialize. Everything takes place in a process that is at the same time unknown, unpredictable and stressful. How to adapt, or rather readapt, to this reality?
After all this time, some may feel like they haven’t done anything … but also feel an overwhelming sense of exhaustion, especially on a psychological level. There is also a curious feeling of deconditioning, especially in front of our old work routine that has become distant: lunch in a hurry, traffic congestion, fear of being late, etc. We didn’t really miss all of this.
We also still have trouble imagining the guidelines for this return to normalcy at work. With all the upheavals of the past year, some of our colleagues have changed teams, companies and even careers. It is not like a traditional return from vacation, because we do not know what awaits us.
Fifteen months of pandemic have caused significant impacts on our body as on our brain. In such a context of disorganization, no one asks us to be in good shape to run this marathon! As with any fitness, it is best to go gradually, first in your daily rituals, such as sleeping or eating. Does it seem difficult to change the pace, or to adjust? Good news, you are not alone!
See the world again
The “soft” clothing was in fashion this year, and many have taken a liking to it. Because dressing regardless of our appearance meant that our interactions with others were minimal, or framed by a camera. However, working “face-to-face” also means “seeing the world again”, including work colleagues, a process that some would have liked to have done without.
Another object that has become essential: the face cover. It represents the symbol of a virus still in circulation, and which also feeds our fear. It is also strong in people who cope badly with this intangible threat. Hence their fear of boarding a crowded bus, of having close contact, or of being in an enclosed space.
Their anxiety is legitimate, and great in our society in the face of current upheavals, but it should not take all the place, because perpetual avoidance is not an option. If caution is required, let’s also try to let go of things over which we have no control.
Adapting is the key
Let us be indulgent to ourselves in the face of anything that may frighten us in this world shattered by COVID-19. If some changes left a bitter taste, others were discoveries, sources of comfort: nothing obliges us to abandon them at the time of deconfinement!
The coming months will continue to demand flexibility, but let’s be open to proposals from decision-makers, bosses and managers. If they invite you to discuss it, in a meeting or during a survey, it is the time to express yourself, and to see your proposals materialize. Let us also be vigilant and benevolent towards those who find it difficult to assert themselves; their well-being at work can greatly contribute to ours.
And let’s face it: many workers feel great joy at the idea of finally separating personal and professional life. Not to mention the pleasure of broken exchanges with colleagues, their support in difficult times, and healthy breaks to reduce stress. The current enthusiasm for teleworking is far from unanimous!
In a year or two, we will have learned several lessons from the COVID-19 era. Our society has become a great social laboratory, giving us the chance to learn as much about ourselves as about others. It’s a unique opportunity to be positively transformed, and not just at work.
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