(ThyBlackMan.com) A term first coined after the 2008 Financial Crisis, according to Forbes, the “new normal” seems to change frequently. What was once commonplace before the bubble burst was never the same again. Technology has had the same effect over the past few decades, allowing employees to work from home and other remote locations.
That same technology has made it possible for businesses to continue operations with minimal interruption throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, which spread throughout the U.S. in early 2020. People have now begun to apply the phrase to life during the coronavirus, with people working from home and otherwise observing social distancing requirements. Many wonder if this is a temporary new normal or something more permanent. No one knows for sure, so the best we can do is try to find strategies to help stay positive.
Regardless of the duration of conditions under COVID-19, it is important to do what you can to feel secure. Here are four things you need to do to have peace of mind in the new normal. 
1. Stay Active
One positive aspect of the coronavirus is that it has served as an inspiration to get outside and stay active. Many parks have remained open, and public officials have encouraged people to go out for walks, jogs and bicycle rides while practicing social distancing. Exercise keeps your body fit and helps you restore and maintain focus and clarity. You will also reduce stress hormones while spurring endorphins that can help relieve stress and regulate mood.
2. Practice Self-Care
While a haircut and a massage are out of the question during a quarantine phase, there are many things you can do to help yourself feel better. Practice meditation or yoga using a DVD or streamed class. Maintain a regular sleep schedule to keep your biorhythms working in good order. Dig into your reading list to explore some titles you’ve wanted to read for a long time. Turn on your favorite music. Anything that soothes you should go on your list.
3. Consider Your Loved Ones
The pandemic has shown us how uncertain life often is. COVID-19 struck people who were least expecting it and, while it primarily affected older people, young people were not immune. In the new normal, it may serve you well to consider investing in a life insurance policy, such as those available through USAA. For rates as low as $12 per month, life insurance is a sound investment in uncertain times. Search for a policy that offers flexible coverage, help for your beneficiaries in case you pass, competitive military-related benefits, and the opportunity to pay off debts that include your mortgage and children’s school tuition.
4. Maintain a Routine
Even if you work from home, it is easy to fall out of your usual routine. You may find that you are staying up later, or falling asleep early in the evening only to wake up in the middle of the night. It is best to stay as close to your usual schedule as possible, so try to go to bed, take your lunch break, and eat dinner at the usual time.
Do Your Best to Make the Most of the New Normal
No matter how long the new normal lasts, you can and should still enjoy your life. By taking care of your health, your family’s financial future and your routine, you cover a lot of bases to help you have peace of mind through it all.
Staff Writer; Calvin Parker
