Pandemic etiquette: The new must-have

KINDNESS, CONCERN, SHARING AND BEING TOGETHER

- Shikha Shah

It’s been well over a year since COVID-19 altered our lives completely. Apart from getting used to staying home and following safety guidelines, we are also getting used to a whole new set of rules when it comes to engagement and interaction with others. “The pandemic has definitely changed the way we engage with each other. We are required to be more patient, kind, empathetic with people because everyone is going through a tough phase. It’s a very disorienting time for society. Everyone is going through a certain amount of pain or agony and this needs to be kept in mind while interacting with people to make them comfortable around you,” says relationship expert Dr Aman Bhonsle. Simple salutations can now come across as tone-deaf or emotionless. The usage of right words can convey support and camaraderie.

SOCIAL DISTANCING ETIQUETTE

Humans are innately social animals, but the pandemic has changed the rules of our social interactions. “Even though you may have the urge to embrace a friend, try and maintain 6-feet distance at first, do not remove your mask, and be mindful of physical contact,” says etiquette expert Rukshana Eisa. It’s essential to be polite. “It’s important that you take your personal hygiene seriously, but avoid going on any touching spree,” says Bhonsle.