Of all the adjustments we need to make during the COVID-19 pandemic perhaps the most challenging is learning to live with social isolation. In this post I am sharing a link which features undoubtably an expert in social isolation, astronaut Chris Hadfield, who has spent many months on the International Space Station. Hadfield encourages embracing these challenging times including enjoying the slower pace and perhaps learning something new.

Hadfield also points out that living on the International Space Station, like living through a pandemic, involves being isolated in a high-risk environment.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uL5sqe5Uk8&feature=youtu.be

Hadfield offers the following key points:

Know the Risks. Hadfield recommends that we go to a reliable source to understand “what is truly the risk you are facing.” This clarity will help you stay balanced and “not be afraid of everything.”

Create Clear Goals. Hadfield says it is important to set goals for the next day, next week, and month. Goals give structure to your life.

Acknowledge your Constrains. Who is telling you what you need to do? What financial resources do you have? What are your obligations?

Take Action. Once you are informed on actual risks and you have set your goals keeping in mind realistic constraints, take action. Aside from taking care of your family and yourself, Hadfield suggest that you can try things you have never done before. He points out that with the Internet and all that it allows access to “there is never been a better time to self-isolate.”

Sourced from:

Hadfield, C. (2020, March 21). An Astronaut's Guide to Self Isolation. Retrieved March 22, 2020, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4uL5sqe5Uk8&feature=youtu.be