Changing the Lockdown rules enables people to get back to their livelihoods, it does not mean that the risk of catching COVID-19 is over. Actually the risk is increased.
With nearly 100,000 infections in South Africa and approaching 2000 mortalities, as of 22 June 2020, many are gathering and ignoring social distancing and regular hand washing. This is understandable, when feeling ‘Gatvol’ it is easy to ignore the facts of how COVID-19 spreads.
Please do not mindlessly do what ‘everyone’ is doing. Make your own informed choices – the virus has not gone away. You need to make strong decisions about caring for yourself, your family, your colleagues, and your community. The old rules of social distancing, hand washing, mask-wearing and building your immune system are vital defence strategies. Don’t let your guard down.
It’s not back to normal yet – but your mindful response can help you become a better and stronger person.
With hairdressers and other beauty technicians getting back to work wearing a face mask whilst you have a massage might feel a bit weird. It may look and feel strange whilst having your nails done especially since it will hide those warm, welcoming smiles from each other. With that first natural expression of our feelings hidden behind a mask, the excitement can quickly become a feeling of alienation and loneliness. Don’t let this happen. Take the lead in reconnecting and rekindling friendships – by using your voice. Tell others what you feel and experience – and keep your sense of connectedness alive with regular emotional check-ins. So actively inquire how others are feeling.
Yes, it will be natural , and correct, to be concerned about your own workplace safety. Manage that concern by ask your employer how your company is to implement the required hygiene and social distancing rules. Get your team to discuss your unique circumstance and to agree on how to comply in order to ensure you care for each other’s safety.
We’re in this together – as we get back to work let’s find new ways to care for each other.
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