10 Things To Think About Since the World "Re-Opened"

Hello Sunshine!

We've spent over 15 months in quarantine adjusting and readjusting almost every aspect of our lives, from our jobs to our family dynamics.  It almost seemed like we'd never return back to "normal" and that our new lives, consisting of never-ending zoom calls and drive-by celebrations, would become the "new normal."  

With the combined efforts of modern science and old-fashioned common sense, we're starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. We're two months into summer and the CDC has lifted mask mandates and social-distance guidelines.  Shops and restaurants are operating at full capacity.  Schools and workplaces are preparing for a return to productivity.  Friends and family are reuniting after months of being apart.  Communities are gathering for the first time in over a year.  And personally, I feel like I'm finally releasing the stress of teaching both virtually and in-person during the most "unprecedented" time in our history.

Now that we've finally crawled out from our quarantine quarters and we're getting into the swing of things, take a moment to strategize your post-pandemic comeback!  Check out this list of 10 things you should consider now that the world has "re-opened".

Rooftops have become my favorite spot to enjoy fresh air and friends now that I'm out and about.  Philly has never looked better!

1. Look Around, You Survived

Guess what, you survived a pandemic! In some shape or form, your life changed drastically over the last year and a half.  But you survived.  Let that sink in.

2. Reallocate Your Funds

Just like GEICO, I saved 15% on life by STAYING IN THE HOUSE this past year! But as soon as the world "opened up" my money started looking real funny, hunny! If you're like me, you quickly adapted your spending habits to your at-home lifestyle.  Well now that there's much more to do, it's a great time to look closely at your personal budget.  How can you reallocate your funds to fit your lifestyle as you venture out more? Set some realistic savings goals and set some money aside to treat yourself (you deserve it after this year)!

3. Sign-Up for a Check-Up

Chances are, you haven't kept up with your routine preventative healthcare over the last year (doctor, dentist, therapist, etc).  And who could blame you, hospitals and doctor's offices were overwhelmed with COVID patients (thank you healthcare heroes).  Now that things have simmered down a bit in the healthcare field (fingers crossed) it would be a great time to schedule that appointment you've been holding off on (and probably your kid's too).

4. Set Boundaries

Some people are still processing the trauma of the past year, physically and mentally.  Some people aren't ready to jump back into society so openly just yet.  Consider what boundaries you might want to set to protect your peace and help you transition back to certain aspects of life.  Maybe you are most comfortable wearing your mask.  Maybe you are more comfortable with take-out than dine-in.  Maybe you'd prefer to visit friends in outdoor spaces or in small gatherings.  Whatever works for you, communicate it with others and respect boundaries your loved ones may have in place.

5. Visit Loved Ones

I think we've all learned the value of quality time since the pandemic began.  Now that almost half of Americans are vaccinated and we have a better understanding of how to gather in a safe way, go hug somebody you love!  And don't forget to respect their boundaries.

6. Reconnect with your Faith

However you define your faith, it was surely tested this past year.  Personally, I felt incredibly isolated and it was difficult to connect with my church family as we worshipped virtually.  My prayer life and bible study definitely suffered as a result.  Whether you belong to a Church, Mosque, Temple, or define your own divine connection, find time to reconnect spiritually (and if you need a prayer partner, hit me up).

7. Do Something You Enjoy

I don't know about you, but I've spent a lot of time over the last year and a half doing a lot of things I DID NOT enjoy.  I think we deserve to treat ourselves.  What's something that you truly enjoyed pre-pandemic? GO DO IT!  

I recently enjoyed skating at the Rothman Roller Rink in Dilworth Park, located in Center City Philadelphia.

8. Plan a Trip

Studies say that the anticipation of a planned trip or event can release just as many feel-good hormones as the actual event itself.  We could all use a little pick-me-up and change of scenery! Whether it's a stay-cation taking in the sights our your hometown, or a trip abroad, plan that getaway (don't forget to check the health and safety protocols for your destination)!

I took a solo trip to Mexico in December 2020 for my 30th birthday.  I was a litter nervous but well prepared.  The safety precautions in Mexico made me feel safe.  It was an amazing trip!  

9. Find a Cause

One thing we've all learned this year is that we as a society have A LOT to work on. Civil rights, racial discrimination, poverty, gun violence, inadequate schools, homelessness, climate change, gender inequality, and health care availability are just a few of the issues that plague our communities. I encourage you to find what cause speaks to you and educate yourself on ways you can give your time and talents to serve others and effect change.

10. Don't Throw Away Those Masks

If you're like me, you couldn't WAIT to rip off that mask for the last time!  But don't toss them out so fast, there are some things from the pandemic that NEED TO STAY!  Wearing a mask in certain close spaces or WHEN YOU'RE ACTUALLY SICK are customs that are standard in many other cultures and think it's time we adopted some of these safety measures too. 

However you decide to step back into the world, I pray that you are happy and healthy and that you find sunshine wherever you are.  

What points resonated most with you? Comment below! 

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