Maintaining A Connection

Many individuals that are working from home are experiencing zoom fatigue. They are on their devices and/or computers all day with nonstop meetings. It is understandable that these individuals want a break from looking at the screen and are resorting to good distractions like reading a book, taking a walk, or cooking.

But many people are incredibly isolated during this time. Especially those like Tony and me that have chronic conditions that are high risk. We only go out when we must. Therefore, if we want to connect with our families, friends, or others through business, zoom is a lifeline. Throughout the pandemic we have had a weekly family call with different topics. This has been a source of great joy as we hear family stories and laugh. A true silver lining because this never would’ve happened if there was not a pandemic. We have celebrated birthdays over zoom with individuals in attendance that we never met and therefore had the opportunity to see and talk to in a small setting. We have been able to exercise online and not be in the gym where we worry about getting sick.

With respect to our business, we realized when we did a zoom presentation that so many individuals are lonely and isolated. Because of their health conditions and high-risk status, they are also in the same boat as we are. They

are craving connection; someone to talk to and understand how scared they are and what they are experiencing, especially those that live alone. For instance, one person stated how afraid she is of getting sick and having to go to the hospital. Even if she doesn’t have COVID, she cannot have anyone with her. What if the doctor doesn’t understand her condition? What if she is so sick that she cannot communicate her needs? This brought up an important issue. We should all be thinking about this. As they say, hope for the best but prepare for the worst. We should all designate a specific person that can be called on for assistance over the phone if for some reason we wind up in the hospital. Also, it is wise to talk to your primary care physician about being a point of contact if you wind up in the hospital.

We are hopeful that this pandemic will be over sometime in 2021. In the meantime, we are not going to complain about zoom fatigue. We are happy that we can connect with our friends, family, and conduct business by helping others.

Originally published at https://happyonwheels.com on November 30, 2020.