During times of heightened stress, it is exceptionally challenging to learn new things. Our brain strives to do what is comfortable and familiar – desperately seeking balance and stability. This is not a flaw. It's by design. It's our body's way of protecting us, focusing on the most important things to ensure our survival. But to cope effectively and get through this crisis relatively intact, we can't just give up or give in. We have to change and adjust.
So how do we adjust our expectations?
Before we can adjust our expectations, it's important to recognize and appreciate where we are. Everyone has needs. Our basic survival needs must be met for us to have enough energy to work on meeting other, more complex needs.
Full article here: https://cookchildrens.org/coronavirus/resources/coping/Pages/managing-expectations.aspx