Just like every new year, people all around the globe had high hopes when the clock ticked into 2020. The first five months of the year already feels like a decade, considering the myriad of events which have unfolded before our very eyes. Chief amongst them is the COVID-19 pandemic which has taken the whole world by storm.

At the time of this publication, there has been no approved vaccine by the World Health Organisation (W.H.O), however several measures are being put in place to curb the spread of the novel virus.

Lifestyles have changed drastically, walking around in gloves and masks are the order of the day all in an effort to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Social distancing is very popular in our vocabulary and in practice; digital connections are of essence more than ever.

It has not all been gloom and doom, many positive outcomes have been experienced from the pandemic. We have all come to value the things we take for granted; faith, family, environment, and several issues which affect the society at large. We have learnt to prioritize our time, relationships, efforts and finances. It is obvious that we all need each other, and to stand together in order to fight this pandemic.

At this moment, each person has their own hopes, fears, insecurities, and a mix of emotions they may be dealing with, as the “what next” question lingers on the minds of many. Alone, we can only do so much; but together, we can do much more. These are a few things that can be done to show concern for others during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Observe hygiene protocols

Observing personal hygiene protocols such as washing of hands and the use of sanitizers is not only beneficial to a person, but those around him or her as well. COVID-19 spreads through contact, and so if everyone is attaching precautionary measures through proper hygiene as prescribed, infections would be minimized. Therefore, anytime you think of observing personal hygiene, know that you are doing it for others too.

Check on each other

This might sound like a cliché, but sometimes you do not know what people are going through. A simple “hello” could lead to a lot of changes for someone who needs a shoulder to lean on, virtually or figuratively. Offer your support in any way you can as it might go a long way to mitigate a certain issue that the other party might be dealing with.

Share words of encouragement

You don’t need to know someone personally to be a source of encouragement to them. Posting inspiring words on social media for example may reach a random audience who may need it at that particular time. It is necessary to spread hope and positivity to friends, family and people around you.

Give to the less fortunate

COVID-19 and its impact has taken most people by surprise. From loss of loved ones, jobs, finances and many more, we have all had to make mandatory adjustments. Not everyone has been fortunate to have access to basic needs. This is a good time to show your love and concern for the less fortunate in society. Start from those around you. Offer to contribute to charities and donate to crowd funding activities for people in need. Eventually all these activities will turn back as a blessing to you.

Stay at home

We’ve heard this a lot of times and especially lately, but if its not really necessary to go out then stay at home. This is a precautionary measure not only for yourself, but for others too. We aren’t used to living a life of minimal contact with our family, friends, and colleagues so it may be hard adjusting to this new norm. Thinking of the benefits of staying home and observing social distancing, as a way of curbing the spread of the virus should be enough motivation to do so. Don’t only stay at home, but stay positive too!

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