The problem…
The pandemic crisis of corona virus covid-19 is undoubtedly one of the strongest and most special events of the 21st century. It is a completely new situation in which older and younger people experiencing unprecedented situations. In this continuously changing environment people firstly passed through the self isolation period of been locked down in their homes while most businesses and public services around them were closed for over 2 months. After this challenging period that people have to overcome stress, anxiety and infection danger, maintaing at the same time their physical and mental health, the market gradually re-opened but people found themselves in a new and difficult situation. Αll citizens regardless of age, nationality, gender and generation now had to adapt to a new reality in their societies. They needed to keep safe adhering to strict hygiene measures but at the same time to continue their lives in a new normalcy as smoothly as possible. Practically, in everyday life there are several contradictions between the two situations that confuse and stress people. Some of our main questions are: how to greet a customer, how to talk at a safe distance with a colleague, what I do when take part on someone’s birthday celebration? Is it rude and unprofessional not to shake hands?
The solution…
First of all, the proper approach and the priority at this situation is always keeping ourselves and other people safe. Following strictly the hygiene rules in order to avoid infection at any case. Having that as our main target, an adaption on our social behaviour is needed in order to continue our lifes inseparable. We must all understand that it is not lack of kindness to avoid kiss someone (a habit particularly practiced by the Greeks at several circumstances of their daily life). Instead of that we can greet each other using our elbows and add enough humor in order to lighten the mood that may be uncomfortable for both sides. A “japanese” greeting is always a good solution in order to express our gratitude for a succesful meeting. In case of an indoor presence with other people, the use of a mask is always a strong weapon to protect ourselves and other people’s health even if we hide our faces. There are always beautiful words to express our feelings and keep close to the people we are together. Social adaption is also needed in several fields of our personal life while spending time with friends or family members. Strong attention to details and positive integration of these habits to a new normalcy is the key to succeed a normal return on our social lives.
The conclusion…
The post covid-19 era is extremely challenging and requires acceptance and adaption. More specifically the most difficult period is until a safe vaccine is found and allow all people return to their good old habits. It is important though to see this pandemic crisis as an opportunity to transform the negative impact of the stress and the needed changes to a positive attitude of a new safe and strong global society which will maintain its bonds and with solidarity will move forward to an optimistic future.
Chrysostomos I. Bouras