So angry with myself for not distancing

[Rainandmorerain]

Back at work and so caught up in it that forgot to distance. Over 2 days approx 7 people each day

• we were both wearing masks
• were not talking for more than 5 minutes

BUT I’m so angry at myself for forgetting Hadn’t worked for a while and was just so taken with it. Going to be super strict now but I am so angry at myself for forgetting. Just needed to type this as I couldn’t get hold of anyone to chat to tonight.

It can be easy to temporarily forget about social distancing when wearing masks and you haven’t been out in the ‘real world’ for ages. I’ve accidentally done it myself and felt much the same as you afterwards. What’s done is done so there is no use dwelling on it.
At least you were both wearing masks so hopefully all should be well. Were windows open a bit in the surrounding area to help with ventilation?

Close contact is defined as more than 15 mins. Given that you were both masked and it was only a short time you are most likely completely fine. Dont be angry with yourself, its completely natural to forget to override a lifetime of socialization and human instinct.

I agree it's hard to remember at work with your colleagues. We've worked as a team throughout the pandemic and we've all been ok but this week one of my team mate's spouse has got Covid, so she is off self isolating, and now we are all wearing masks and keeping our distance. A reality check.

Re windows, as asked above, they weren’t open although it’s a big room. Afterwards I was so annoyed with myself when I realised I’d been standing close to them. All I can think is that at least we were all wearing masks and when I was close to each person individually it wasn’t for longer than 5 minutes.
But it’s definitely given me a jolt to be super strict from now on as on reflection I would definitely have distanced.

It's not an instinctive thing to do at first, takes a while to get into the habit so don't beat yourself up. Try and open those windows though as ventilation is just as important as masks and SD.

Sounds like you are feeling extremely anxious

Fembot, that’s true. I was so anxious about things near the start of the pandemic but wasn’t working
Gradually calmed my anxiety down and have been fine but that gave me a bout of it when I realised I hadn’t distanced