The ongoing pandemic has already impacted our way of life in a huge way.

We learned quickly to adapt to a new way of life, not quite knowing if life will ever be the same and carry on as usual. Everyone talks about the ‘new normal’ and we find ourselves more accepting and understanding that this is the way moving forward.

While we are stuck at home most of the time, we learned to creatively use the resources we have on hand – with the use of technology, working from home became a new normal. Online meetings have become a new standard. Every activity online from exercise to entertainment has taken over while we remain in isolation from our family and friends. We did stay connected with social media at our fingertips!  

Discussions continue to go on around the world of how the ‘New Normal’ will look. With strict health protocols in place, we are faced with a new way of shopping, a new way of dining out, a new way travelling and more.

Here’s what some countries will be implementing in their ‘new normal’:
• Japan : They already get used to wear face shields when going out for meals in restaurant or café. School activities are divided into 2 groups coming in daily but with different school time schedule.
• Thailand : The restaurants make seating arrangement and boundary with distance between one table to another.
• Australia : Drive-in locations to watch movies, music or other entertainment. Another new normal will be flexible working hours and work location.

Each country will have different regulations for a new normal. In Indonesia, the Government is still studying the conditions to prepare for the new normal. The implementation will coincide with disciplining of health protocols assisted by the Authorities. Furthermore, the new normal order will be expanded if considered effective.

For now, do pay attention to the following recommendations:
• Wear clothes/ jacket with long sleeves.
• If you have long hair, tie it back. The virus can stick on to your hair and wash your hair after going out.
• No need to wear accessories: leave it at home, such as your rings, necklace, watch.
• Clean your handphone regularly.
• Always wear a face-mask.
• Keep your distance a minimum of 1 – 1,5 meters up to 2 meters. Stay apart.

Soon we will be facing the new normal. Offices and business are set to open with guidelines to maintain social distancing and safety. As long as the coronavirus still exist and the vaccine is not yet found, we have to stay safe, take care of ourselves by being healthy. Remember to follow the health and safety protocols and regulations from the Health Authorities.

Be ready for a new normal and stay positive!