Pandemic Fatigue

Pandemic fatigue seems to be manifesting in numerous ways, or so it would seem from the number of people I have been speaking to lately and experiencing myself. There seems to be a tiredness that is enveloping us, rather like stress, anxiety or depression does. So how do we tackle this, as yet, unrecognised condition.

Well, firstly it is about acknowledging how physically and or mentally tired you are. Then, understanding the various stress triggers that have caused it and there is a long list - adjusting to working from home; being on furlough or worse being made redundant; home schooling; lack of social contact within work and lack of contact with our families; no holidays or change of scenery; unable to attend love one’s funerals - to name just a few.

We must, like everything else in life, find the positives - there is a light at the end of the tunnel, even though the lockdown is being extended for yet another 4 weeks. The world is still spinning, the vaccination programme is pressing ahead, and business is beginning to move in the right direction, with growth clearly being seen and forecast across most sectors.

I believe that as many of us have not had a holiday or a break from the norm for well over 18 months, in my case 3 years, the time is now to plan - even if it be a long weekend away, a change of scenery, something that feeds your soul. Working from home has its benefits but also a downside - we tend to work longer hours and are less disciplined with our working day. So now is the time to fix that, to prepare for the return to an office environment even if it is going to be a hybrid version. Schedule your working day effectively, work the hours you need to but make sure you turn off at a certain time, put a routine in and if possible, shut the (at home) working door, close the computer and enjoy the sunshine, the open air, the tress or whatever makes you feel good, be disciplined with your time.

Look to the future! What do you want it to look like - home, work, social etc.? Start planning now, it is yours to grasp.

Finally, apart from finding what feeds your soul and nourishing it, know that sleep is good - it is our way of regenerating - so do not feel bad or guilty if you need an afternoon nap occasionally.

If you want to discuss any of the above or would like to experience a complimentary coaching session, please let me know - email cate@dbxcareercoacing.com with your availability.