While the pandemic brought about immense challenges and hardships, it also brought certain unexpected changes that, surprisingly, many people find themselves longing for, as we reflect on the unique aspects of that time.
Working From Home
For some of us, working from home was a blessing. We could avoid commuting, dress comfortably, and have more flexibility in our schedules. We also saved money on gas, parking, and eating out.
Spending More Time With Family
The pandemic forced us to stay at home with our loved ones, which gave us a chance to bond and appreciate each other more. We also learned new skills, hobbies, and games together.
Baking Bread
Remember when everyone was obsessed with baking bread? It was a fun and satisfying way to pass the time and enjoy a delicious treat. Plus, it made our homes smell amazing.
Reading More Books
With less distractions and more free time, we could finally catch up on our reading lists. We discovered new authors, genres, and stories that enriched our minds and souls.
Streaming Shows and Movies
The pandemic was a golden age for streaming services, as they offered us endless entertainment options to keep us occupied and amused. We binge-watched our favorite shows and movies, and found new ones to love.
Wearing Masks
Masks were not only a necessity, but also a fashion accessory. We could express our personality and style with different colors, patterns, and designs. We also enjoyed the anonymity and privacy they provided.
Having Less Social Pressure
The pandemic gave us an excuse to avoid social situations that we didn’t enjoy or feel comfortable with. We could say no to invitations without feeling guilty or rude. We also appreciated the quality over quantity of our social interactions.
Shopping Online
Online shopping was a convenient and safe way to get what we needed without leaving our homes. We could browse, compare, and order products with just a few clicks. We also enjoyed the thrill of receiving packages in the mail.
Learning New Things Online
The pandemic opened up a world of online learning opportunities for us, as we could access courses, tutorials, webinars, podcasts, and more on various topics and skills. We could learn at our own pace and convenience, and expand our knowledge and abilities.
Appreciating Nature More
The pandemic made us realize how much we missed and needed nature in our lives. We enjoyed going for walks, hikes, bike rides, or picnics in parks, forests, beaches, or mountains. We also noticed and admired the beauty of the seasons, the sky, the flowers, and the animals.
Supporting Local Businesses
The pandemic affected many small and local businesses negatively, so we felt more compelled to support them by buying their products or services, leaving positive reviews, or donating to their causes. We also discovered new gems in our neighborhoods that we might not have noticed before.
Being More Creative
The pandemic challenged us to be more creative in finding ways to cope, have fun, and stay connected with others. We wrote poems, stories, songs, or blogs; we painted, drew, sculpted, or crafted; we played instruments, sang, danced, or acted; we made videos, podcasts, or memes; we hosted virtual parties, games nights, or quizzes; we sent letters, cards, or gifts; we did anything that sparked our imagination and joy.
Having More Gratitude
The pandemic made us appreciate what we had more than ever before: our health, our safety, our family, our friends, our home, our food, our water, our electricity, our internet. We realized how lucky we were to have these things that we often took for granted.
Being More Mindful
The pandemic forced us to slow down and live in the present moment more often. We became more aware of our thoughts, feelings, sensations, and surroundings. We practiced meditation, yoga, or breathing exercises to calm our minds and bodies.
Decluttering and Organizing Our Homes
The pandemic gave us an opportunity to sort through our belongings and get rid of things we didn’t need or use anymore. We donated, sold, or recycled our unwanted items, making space for what mattered most.
Slowing Down and Living in the Moment
The pandemic forced us to slow down and appreciate the present moment. We stopped worrying about the past or the future, and focused on what we had and what we could control. The abrupt halt to our bustling routines allowed us to appreciate the simpler things in life, such as spending quality time with loved ones, pursuing hobbies, and taking a breather from the constant rush. The absence of social obligations and commute time provided an opportunity for self-reflection and introspection that we rarely had in the pre-pandemic world.
Increased Focus on Health
The pandemic heightened our awareness of personal health and well-being. With the constant reminders of the importance of hygiene, handwashing, and taking precautions, we became more conscious of our health choices. People began adopting healthier lifestyles, paying attention to physical fitness, cooking nutritious meals at home, and prioritizing mental well-being. We now miss the collective focus on health that the pandemic brought and the positive changes it inspired in our lives.
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