These fears put together, stir craziness that is good enough to strain even the healthiest of family to the core. Such a strain changes the dynamics of home. How do you avoid getting into such unhealthy fights and conflicts at home during this pandemic? Here are some of the few things you can do.
1. Establish respectful communication about your health:
During the coronavirus pandemic, it is good to note that the virus spreads first within household, with a projected 15% contracting the disease from those they live with. It thus calls for the need of collaboration to keep each other safe and healthy. Reach out and have serious conversations with your family to iron out some of the issues that may be pending in one way or the other. Identify what each one likes or doesn’t like and stay in your lanes to avoid unnecessary confrontation.
2. Take time for yourself – even if it’s just a few minutes:
It is entirely impossible to be alone during this crisis. If you want a peace of mind, it is vital to create time for your own self. If you have children, give them a time to watch a movie as you take your own time alone. It is a good move to unwind all the daily stress in a calm environment and this will help avoid burst-ups left right and center in the house.
3. Understand that it is okay to be human:
Agree that conflicts are normal human phenomenon and there is no crime having occasional meltdowns or arguments. Instead, you need to understand that at such times, you can build stronger bonds and relationships by setting ground rules to curb the re-occurrence of more explosive conflicts in the future. We are all only human, and we are doing the best we can. So if conflict does arise between you and your loved ones during these times, remember that we all have access to an extraordinary power: forgiveness.
4. Listen carefully to others
Listening to issues in a mature manner is one of the best ways to avoid conflict. It is thus important when a conflict arises you take time to listen carefully to others. Define the conflict and frame the right solution to it, find out if the conflict is directed at you or the problem. That way, you will be in a better position to tell how well to solve the problem without causing more pain and anger. Work on a compromise that benefits all the parties and close that case. Create harmony and allow individuals to grow and co-exist in a better environment.
5. Understand that they are kids
As parents who are confided in homes at this time, understand that kids are cheeky and cannot control their emotions. To them, physical outbursts are a common thing but as a parent, intervene with love and in a calm way. Teach them as early as you can the importance of a peaceful co-existence. Shower them with praises when they become helpful and co-operative and in that way you are sure to raise a responsible individual.
All in all, it is vital to have a peaceful time at home with your family or friends during this pandemic. Check on each other, watch movies together, do some exercise to burn down the extra energy that may get out of hand if not put to good use. Practice giving each other personal space and talking things out when there is a problem at all times. This way, you will have found the blue print to a happy home and in a great way you will be able to avoid conflicts. Stay safe and protected in your homes during this lockdown!
* The author is a consultant in Public Relations and Personality Types. Instagram: @Tipsbyhalahill
