The government has announced a transition to a General Community Quarantine (GCQ) for certain areas which, from the surface, looks like another step back into the lives we used to live. But it’s still too soon to say goodbye to cabin fever and jump into your usual productivity haunts since the virus isn’t gone altogether just yet. So let’s break down the key things to look out for in this transition:

Personal Hygiene & Personal Space

Face masks and contactless face-time are still a thing, and it’s important to remember to wear your mask over both the nose and mouth. Handwashing, social distancing, and trying to keep as much of the virus out of your living space are still the top things on your to-do list for how to contribute to the collective management of this virus. There is no difference in this department between the last Quarantine policy and the new one, but it needs to be said.

Outdoor and Social Activities

Provided you wear a face mask, you can engage in solo exercises like jogging or biking, and non-contact sports like badminton, golf and skating (so long as you also don’t share equipment). However, mass gatherings and non-essential gatherings in general are still not allowed. Though, the government is still deciding on religious activities.

Food, Clothing, and other Services

Any industry that was partially allowed to operate during MECQ will now be allowed full operation so long as they follow the general safety protocols.

Some things you may especially be interested in are your local veterinary services, construction and engineering, finance, mall-based government services, and restaurants (delivery and take-out only). Clothing, office supplies and hardware shops will now also be accessible.

Barbers and salons are being reviewed for opening. But gyms, entertainment, and tourism industries will still not be allowed.

Getting Around

You can generally go out of the house if you don’t fall under any of these descriptions: are below 21 nor above 60 years old; pregnant; immuno-compromised; a carrier of the virus (or are in the process of getting checked). Mass public transportation systems are also set to resume at a limited capacity provided you’re moving between GCQ-GCQ areas.

What Now?

If you’re doing online work or are allowed to work at a remote capacity at your current gig, or if your business is still allowed to operate, keep doing your best. But right now is a good time to consider long term options and possibilities, and perhaps even new opportunities and avenues for pivoting your business and skillset. A large demand for remote and gofer services is on the rise, and the power of the internet and online entertainment has proven to be an almost essential tool to maintain the mental and emotional health of everyone going through these trying times. Like Gandalf said in the Lord of the Rings, “All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.”