How do we reinforce the new structures and boundaries that we are building?
Many of the structures and boundaries that we have been living with are changing and becoming more fluid. Whether we are looking at our work schedule, work location, home design, mealtimes, community design or developing and maintaining new and old relationships, the times are changing.
Some points to consider:
Gallup recently reported that 45% of full-time U.S. employees are working from home all or part of the time -- down from a peak of 83% in April 2020 -- based on the polling organization's nationally representative surveys. That's up from just 17% before the pandemic.
Indoor entertainment is changing. Many individuals who previously would have sat shoulder to shoulder with thousands of others, are looking for smaller venues or using their home as their favorite entertainment location. Although streaming memberships are slowing down, they are not going away.
Telehealth has changed the relationship and the way we interact with our health-care professionals.
Eating patterns have been modified over the past two years. This is characterized by an increase in snack frequency, preference for sweets and ultra-processed foods and an increased alcohol consumption. Consequently, adherence to healthy diets has decreased.
An ongoing awareness that community design can have a positive impact on the overall health of individuals and the environments we live in. Planning and developing communities that emphasize walkable blocks and streets, housing and shopping in proximity, and accessible public spaces, is beginning to replace urban sprawl.
Looking at how our lives are changing, and reflecting on how our lives were prior to 2020, can offer us intentional ways to change. Many of these changes may not have been possible previously. While the changes we have experienced may have been and are difficult, it also offers us the opportunity to design our lives in a healthier way.
Here is a template of questions to ask yourself.
Reflecting on your life, prior to 2020, what were the changes that you wanted to make, however you could not because of constraints and other boundaries?
Which changes are highest on your priority list?
How can you begin to work these changes into the fabric of your new lifestyle?
You may also want to share with family and friends about your planned changes for added support.
Key Takeaways
Major changes are occurring in all parts of our lives.
Change can be difficult.
Now is the time to make the changes you have been wanting to make.
Best Practices
Rebuild your pantry with foods that nurture your mind, body and spirit.
Revisit work-life balance as a norm.
Ensure that your goals are realistic.
Things to Limit
Regressing and resuming old habits.
Not setting limits on your work hours.
Becoming too sedentary.
Quote of the Week
“The key is not to prioritize what’s on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities”
~Stephen Covey
In summary, readjusting to the many demands on our lives can be seen as a spice that enhances living life to its fullest. The more we embrace these changes, the more our days will be filled with wonderment and satisfaction.
Be Well,
The paraDocs
Check our Welcome Greeting on YouTube
The paraDocs are Dr. Francis L. Battisti, PhD, Psychotherapist, Distinguished Psychology Professor and former Executive V.P and Chief Academic Officer and Dr. Helen E. Battisti PhD, RDN, CDN, Chief Nutrition Officer, at SpNOD, Health Promotion Specialist, Research and Clinical Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and former Assistant Professor.
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