A couple of weeks into the lockdown, a friend surprised me with a pizza, a thoughtful care package filled with self-care goodies, and a lovely plant. Her heartfelt card moved me to tears right there in my kitchen, leaving my kids looking at me in concern. Later, I reached out to express my gratitude and shared that I was having a “flat spot” day, a term we now use in our texts to describe the emotional heaviness and confusion that can hit unexpectedly.
Five years back, my family and I took a cross-country road trip that remains etched in my memory. We explored countless breathtaking landscapes—mountains, deserts, lakes, and oceans. However, my recollections of the stretch through Indiana, Illinois, Kansas, and Missouri are less than fond. Those flat plains felt like the “flat spot” of America, where the scenery offered little more than the road ahead and the horizon stretching endlessly. It felt fitting that Kansas served as the backdrop for the tornado in The Wizard of Oz.
The flatness I refer to isn’t just the monotony of daily routines during quarantine; it’s a deeper emotional state. It’s not merely about waking up to another day of canceled plans or the absence of social gatherings. It’s about wrestling with feelings of disappointment, anxiety, and a sense of disconnect from the vibrant life we once led. The emotional landscape we navigate has become flat and featureless, devoid of highs and lows that typically punctuate our experiences.
We’ve adapted physically by honing cooking skills or taking on home projects, perhaps even adopting pets to stave off boredom. We’ve filled our time with walks and virtual hangouts, striving to maintain a semblance of normalcy. Yet, the emotional side of this quarantine remains a challenge. Each day can feel like a struggle, often blending into one another without distinction. You might find yourself in a flat spot while your partner seems to effortlessly navigate the ups and downs, leaving you feeling unmoored.
The key to overcoming these flat spots? Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. It’s about supporting each other, planning virtual meetups, and being attentive to those around you to see if they might be experiencing similar feelings. Each day, remind yourself of the rich tapestry of life you once enjoyed—filled with adventures, connections, and moments that made your heart sing.
If you’re having a flat spot kind of day, reach out to someone. Use the code “flat spot” if you need a little help working through this vast emotional landscape. Together, we can navigate this wild stretch until we find our way back to the vibrant terrain of life.
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Summary:
In the midst of quarantine, many are experiencing emotional “flat spots,” periods where feelings of disappointment and monotony dominate. While physical activities can help occupy time, navigating the emotional landscape proves more challenging. Support from friends, virtual gatherings, and a focus on appreciating life’s rich experiences are vital for overcoming these tough times.