Is it just me or does leaving your house feel a bit strange now that we’re actually allowed to go out. Maybe three months locked in isolation without any other human interaction besides with whoever lives with you really did mess with our social skills...

I was one of those people who was out with friends as soon as I could be. Even if it was a Tuesday. When I sat in a pub for the first time I felt so privileged. I can’t believe that something as simple as sitting in the pub with my friends was so enjoyable and something that I’ve never really appreciated that much before. But in saying this, I know that some of my friends have struggled to adjust to the social lifestyle again. It’s so odd that once we’ve had a break socialising, it can also be so difficult for us to return. Here is on how you can help yourself come back to that lifestyle.

The thing with socialising is that you can’t go without it. If you live like a hermit under a rock you are going to miss out on opportunities for your growth, reduce your chance of entertainment and fun in life, or basically miss out on living a good life. As I spoke about in my blog about relationships/friendships, humans are social creatures - so if we stop going out and spending time with others, we’re really doing a disservice to ourselves. But it can be daunting to return to such a full on life surrounded by so many people, which is something we are not very accustomed to, particularly after this time in isolation. So how can you get through this? How can you overcome this anxiety and fear of being out in the open?

1. Start small
Big groups can be intense. Meet up with one person instead of 10 people at once, to ease yourself into seeing people again. I bet you that after you connect 1 on 1 with another person, you’ll feel more inclined to see more people. Believe me, seeing people in person, is way better than zoom calls.


2. Choose a quick activity to do
If you’re afraid that you won’t be able to commit yourself to a 3 hour dinner (or more spending on how much wine is involved), why don’t you suggest catching up for a quick coffee instead? This is an easy way to make that small step towards hanging out with someone but not being overwhelmed. Each time you do this, choose slightly longer activities and before you know it, you will feel comfortable hanging out with someone all day (ok maybe a bit of a stretch, but you get what I mean).


3. Return to your roots
What did you really enjoy doing before lockdown was a thing? Were you a movie type? An ice-skating lover? A bar hopping fanatic? Find those activities that you really enjoyed doing and start doing them again. You’ll find that being in a comfortable environment doing a familiar activity, will make you more inclined to be out and about.


4. Don’t commit too early
Understand what you don’t want to do or are not ready to do. It’s okay to feel anxious about going out again for the first time. Don’t let anyone push you to do something that you don’t want to do. A simple no can go a long way. What’s even worse is telling someone you are keen to meet up with them and then disappointing them at the last minute because you felt too afraid. Have a real deep think about what you’re ready to do and then act on it before committing to anything.


5. Write
If you still have plenty of worries, write it out. Never underrate the free-spirited mind and the power, yes I said it, in putting pen to paper. I know when I am overwhelmed with lots of emotion or feelings, writing them down really helps me to get a grasp on what I should do next or even helps me to just understand how I am feeling. You can go through that muddle of emotions in a private and personal way.


6. Have a backup plan
Just in case you find yourself in an uncomfortable situation that you’re not ready to return to. Make sure you have someone ready to come and get you on the A.S.A.P. This can be your housemate, your parents or even someone who you live with and trust. Don’t be afraid to rely on others for small things like this.


7. Find something exciting to do
Maybe you need that extra motivation to go out. Lots of places are doing welcome back events and who doesn’t love a themed party? The comedy clubs are opening up, trivia night are back and art exhibitions are a thing again. Choose something that inspires you to really want to go. Having something to look forward to might just be the key to getting you out of that house.


8. Make the effort to feel and look nice
If you’re comfortable about how you’re looking, you’re more likely to feel inclined to leave your home. There’s something different about putting on make up and wearing a nice dress that really gets me pumped.


9. Listen to music
Find some music that is calming or empowers you. Artists do write music intending to connect with their audience. This means their lyrics express plenty of emotions and could be expressing exactly how you’re feeling. Nice to know you are not alone. Music could be the motivator for you or it could be the thing that makes you understand why you’re feeling the way that you feel.


10. Deals and discounts
Such a winner for those of us who did not work during the lockdown. Also they always seem to make food taste better or the event even more fun. Look at restaurants offers or happy hours at bars or even use those Dine and Discover vouchers. Make the most of what you have at hand!

So many people have told me how weird it feels to be out again and how afraid they have been to get back into it so know if you are feeling this way, you are not alone. Hopefully these little tricks can help you get back into the groove. What are you waiting for? Take the leap (or small steps) now !