06/07/2021

Lessons We Can Learn from NASA

Preparing for re-entry into the physical workplace

Astronaut crews living and working in space experience as a matter of course what many of us experienced unexpectedly during the coronavirus pandemic. Consider these similarities:

• They are physically isolated for a long period of time from family, friends and the majority of their work colleagues.
• Their daily in-person interactions are limited to the few people they live with and their other interactions are intermediated through digital technology.
• Their home also serves as their workplace.
• They are surrounded by a dangerous environment that poses a threat to their physical health. (For them, the dangers include a lack of oxygen in outer space; for us, the danger has been the risk of contracting COVID-19.)

What was new and disorienting in our work lives and personal lives over the past year is the ongoing reality of an astronaut's day.

So, what does NASA know about the effects of living in relative social isolation for an extended period of time and then adjusting upon return to being around lots of people again?

Please select this link to read the complete article from SmartBrief.