As restrictions ease, and our bubbles expand, we feel the pull towards a sense of normalcy. But, things are different – that much we know. Can we hug? How many people can I hug? Do they need to be tested? It can be stressful trying to understand how to behave in an “acceptable” way. It can also impede us from initiating important social connections.
Here are a few tips to navigate the new social etiquette in these pandemic times:
Stay within your comfort zone.
If you’re not comfortable expanding your circle or having people inside your home, that’s ok. Do what feels right for you. Try not to feel pressured into doing more than what feels comfortable. Conversely, if you’re ready to have your designated 10 guests over, go for it. These are extraordinary times, and we all need to find our own ways to navigate them. We must all be mindful of not judging others who don’t take the same approach that we do.
Bubble etiquette.
“Bubble” is the catch-phrase of the moment. Creating yours is something that requires some thought and consideration. It by definition is an exclusive club, so excluding someone can result in hurt feelings. If you’ve decided to create your bubble, these strategies may help you navigate potential challenges:
- First things first, be sure to abide by the latest government recommendations.
- Set some ground rules. Get agreement from everyone to honour exclusivity. And make sure everyone is clear on alerting everyone to possible symptoms or veering from the bubble.
- Try not to have hard feelings. If you’re not included in someone’s bubble, try not to take it personally. Remember that this is everyone’s first time “bubbling” and we each have our own comfort zones. By the same token, don’t be offended if someone doesn’t want to join yours. It doesn’t mean they don’t want to be friends. With risks high, we make decisions that feel right for us. If it helps, ask them why they made their decision. When this is over, we want our close bonds to remain intact.
- Consider avoiding posting events on social media. This can help avoid hurting people’s feelings and prevent a rift.
- Try a cohort that works for you. For example, if you’re single, get all your single friends together. If you have a family, consider partnering up with another family.
- Do a trial run. Try your bubble for two weeks or so, and see how it works for everyone.
Although we’ve done our best to maintain connections with our friends and loved ones, Zoom calls can never beat the real thing. Enjoy these moments you’ve been waiting so long for. Tell your loved ones how much you’ve missed seeing them, or hearing their laugh in person. Continue to be vigilant and rule-abiding – but also, enjoy that hug.
