With no end in sight, the COVID-19 pandemic is still raging on, and even some introverts are feeling relationship starved. You may be seeing your friends, long-distance partners, and other people a little less. If you’re living with someone, it presents its own set of challenges.
With relationships, some people are great at them while others are always having lessons learned about them. However, in these times, we think all people are struggling. It’s important to know a few rules during these times, including:
Be Kind
This is a simple rule for any relationships. However, in these troubling times, it can be difficult to maintain kindness. We have our own problems to worry about, and we may come across as mean or like we’re blowing others off. It’s important to show kindness to your friends and loved ones, and offer an ear sometimes. If you are not in the mood to talk or are having an argument, take a break.
Set Some Time for Socializing
For your local friends, you may want to consider meeting up in a park and social distancing. However, for those long-distance friends or for those who don’t want to risk meeting up, it’s important for you to still hang out. Using video chatting, set some time for you to socialize with your friends. Maybe have a virtual movie night or something.
For Those Who Are Living With Someone
Be it your partner, family, or a roommate, you’re probably spending more time at home with them. Always being surrounded by someone, even if it’s someone you love, can have some negative effects. You may feel trapped and some of their quirks can bother you more.
That’s why it’s important for you to have your own space. If you’re living in a small area, this can be a challenge. However, schedule some time in your room or away from your roommate if you feel like you need some space. It’s okay for you to need a little space in these times where we all feel trapped. Just do it safely.
One of the best ways to get space is to explore the outdoors. Depending on where you live, it can be more difficult to social distance. However, if there’s a forest nearby or you live in the countryside, it become easy.
Try to Manage Conflict
If your marriage or friendship is on the rocks, you’re not alone. Various people are fighting because they are alone more, and because of stress. Even if your friend or partner is long-distance, you may find yourself getting into fights with them.
- Don’t let a time where we all need to be together be the end of your relationship! Here are some ways to avoid that.
- Take a break whenever you find yourself in an argument. Come back to the discussion with a fresh mind.
- Listen to the person’s issues and try to be empathetic, even if you feel like you don’t agree with them on everything.
- Try to reach compromise and find solutions. In a time like this, conflict shouldn’t be a competition on who is right. Even if you feel like you are in the right, set your pride aside for bit.
Plan for the Future
Right now, the future feels uncertain. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be planning for the future. If you live with your partner, the two of you should be making plans for the future and discussing where you want to go from here. From saving money to planning a vacation when it’s all over, planning is always important, even in a time where it feels like there is no future.
Speak to a Therapist
During this time of uncertainty, it’s okay to want to talk to a therapist or counselor about your issues. Whether you want to get some help on your own or you want to speak to a marriage counselor about how to thrive in 2020, there is no shame in seeking some help.
Because of the pandemic, many people are turning to online therapy. Online therapy involves speaking to a professional therapist through video or text chat.
Websites such as ReGain have revolutionized how we seek therapy. While many will still want a face-to-face conversation, online therapy can be just as beneficial in the long run.
Conclusion
Managing relationships during the pandemic does share some similarities with how we were before COVID-19. From showing kindness to having empathy in a disagreement, these are all strong rules to follow. Of course, every rule has its pandemic twist, like looking for creative ways to have space when you feel trapped in your own house. We hope you can keep your relationships going strong this year and the next.
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