DEAR HARRIETTE: I suffer from extreme allergies all year round and I work in a factory. When I get into one of my sneezing or coughing fits, I feel my colleagues cringe.
I get it. Coughing and sneezing spread germs, and no one wants to catch COVID-19. But we all do COVID tests once a week. I have never tested positive. I have allergies.
Trust me – it’s not easy having them and having to wear a mask, which just makes it harder to breathe. But I wear it anyway, just like everyone else. How can I stop my colleagues from looking at me? It’s hard enough to be there when I’m not feeling well. I don’t appreciate the hostility.
Stop blinding
BEST STOP GLARING: Create a sign to wear that says “I HAVE ALLERGIES, NOT COVID.” Seriously, if it’s allowed you might want to. It indicates to people that you are not a source of germs to worry about.
I can only imagine how challenging it is for you to deal with everyday looks. Continue to take your allergy medications. Receive the vaccine when it comes your way – with your doctor’s approval, since you’re allergic – and carry a sign if your supervisor allows it. It can reduce hostility.
DEAR HARRIETTE: I want to stay in touch with people better.
I stopped by and visited people in pre-COVID-19 days. That included people in my hometown when I went home to visit during the holidays, and people in my neighborhood or from previous jobs when I had some downtime. Now I am home all the time. When people come to my mind, I realize it’s been a long time since we’ve caught up.
Do you find it strange when I randomly start calling people I may not have spoken to in a year? I don’t want to be annoying; I just want to check in. Being alone for months and months takes its toll on me. I can only imagine this to be true for some people I know.
To check in
BEST CHECK-IN: It’s very nice and thoughtful for you to want to reconnect with people you haven’t seen or spoken to in a long time. That is, of course, given the limitations we have had on personal engagement since March last year. I imagine people you know and care about would appreciate it if you reach out.
What I do to stay organized is make a list of the people I care about and want to contact. By writing down the names, I commit to continue. By checking the names, I know who I have called and who can still be reached. Be creative with your list. Think elders, community leaders, family friends, high school friends, college friends, former co-workers, etc. If possible, use technology to create an intimate connection through video conferencing and even group chat plans. Make it fun and engaging. Your loved ones will appreciate it!
Harriette Cole is a lifestyle list and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send inquiries to [email protected] or c / o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.