How to Handle Social Distancing Disagreements
The COVID-19 pandemic has made relationships with family and friends more difficult in several ways. Now that many states are starting to reopen, social distance disagreements and differences of opinion regarding it have been stronger to create issues in close relationships.
People are having different tolerances, different personalities for risks, and various conditions that modify our possibilities of contracting or spreading the virus and decide how severely it might impact us. So how will you respect your different viewpoints on securely socializing without causing differences of opinion?
Here are some techniques shared by experts to help with difficult pandemic situations and with growing a healthy relationship primarily:
1. Share Your Vulnerability Along With Your Concerns
Responding to your loved one’s concerns with impersonal facts, criticism, and statistics will not possibly work well. Some people are contradictory and argue a lot. So, instead of going big-scale regarding why social distancing is required for preventing this virus’ spread, just discuss your concerns and fears. Tell them why this is impacting you personally and how this pandemic is affecting you. Discussing vulnerability can help you have empathy and people will hear you more.
2. Inquire Any Judgmental Feeling You Possibly Have
It’s okay to feel judgmental as it’s a normal human response. After all, shaming yourself for having such types of feelings will not help. So, judgment can cause blaming. Sometimes it feels good to release these emotions on an individual in queries; however, it’s not helpful to reach understanding. So, if you find yourself judged, keep in mind that empathy should be the priority for these types of conversations, particularly if you will impact somebody’s behavior or opinions.
3. Inquire regarding another Individual’s Ground Rules
Apart from communicating your boundaries, ask regarding what makes another individual feel comfortable. By asking questions and listening to other persons’ guidelines, you can show that you respect their barriers. And this will make you feel more attached and save your time also.
4. Accept everyone’s Emotions
When your opinion is not similar to somebody, you can easily concentrate on basic concerns like wishing everybody to stay safe. However, there is a better way to showcase your concern. Authenticating another individual’s emotions can soften the situation. When you list to the feelings of others and authenticate them, it helps you reduce your worry.
5. Accept New Ways of Reviving Relationships
If you cannot visit a loved one, when due to social distancing disagreements, geographic distance, or medical issues, try to make the bond stronger differently. Apart from shared activities and chats through video, discuss strategies you would prefer doing when you can like going on a road tour or enjoying an ice cream. Discussing plans can get you all positive emotions flowing.
During this crisis period, try to stop discussing COVID-19 pandemic with your friends and family. Try to maintain contact through video calls or social channels. When we all overcome this situation and we are at a point that depression or anxiety is not high for everyone, we may discover that we still have that shared connection.