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Life coach offers five top tips for return to 'real world' after furlough and lockdown


By Hector MacKenzie

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Carol Ann Rice believes it is worth considering what you liked about lockdown when reflecting on a return to 'normal' life.
Carol Ann Rice believes it is worth considering what you liked about lockdown when reflecting on a return to 'normal' life.

For many of us, the gradual easing of lockdown brings the opportunity to get back to the ‘real world’ – seeing friends and family, trips out, the return to a regular schedule.

However, for some, being furloughed or working remotely meant a break from a normally hectic schedule, and many of us got to enjoy some much needed me-time. For a few months, lockdown life offered us a little simplicity, and readjusting back to normality might prove a challenge.

If you find yourself wondering how to hold onto the aspects of lockdown you enjoyed, while also trying to move forward, then Carole Ann Rice, one of the UK’s leading life coaches, suggests a number of ways to help.

"Schedule in your new hobbies a few times a week and make sure you stick to them. Don’t let them fly under the radar. They can be part of post-lockdown life, too."

1. Pace yourself – it’s okay to take your time adjusting back to normality. Don’t rush yourself. You don’t have to do anything you don’t want to do, it’s okay to take it slow. It might be helpful to discuss how you’re feeling with those close to you, it’s possible they might be struggling, too.

2. Reflect – what did you like about lockdown? Identify the positives, write them down, post them on the noticeboard. Don’t forget about them just because life is returning back to normal.

3. Be pro-active – ensure you implement these positives of lockdown in the future. Pick up yoga during the last few months? Learn how to cross-stitch? Schedule in your new hobbies a few times a week and make sure you stick to them. Don’t let them fly under the radar. They can be part of post-lockdown life, too.

4. Set boundaries – at the moment, trying to navigate your way through this world is tricky. Focus on what make you feel happy, and learn how to say no to things you don’t feel comfortable doing.

5. Talk to work – now that many people have successfully been able to work from home, a lot of workplaces are becoming more flexible. If working from home eases any anxieties or fears, talk to your manager or someone at work you trust.

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