Since the middle of March 2020 we’ve all been under government restrictions to try and stop the spread of the Covid-19 pandemic. This situation was so alien at first, but it’s surprising how quickly we’ve all adapted. Despite losing our freedom to travel and socialise with others, we’ve reflected on some of the good things to come out of this strange way of living.
1. Slowing Down
One thing we noticed straight away was that our lives really slowed down. We noticed this more during the weekends. Normally, we’d be rushing around trying to cram as many chores as possible into the short time off work. But now, we truly value the time we have and don’t feel as much pressure to put the time to good use. We’re even walking the dog more slowly as we appreciate the time we have outdoors. It feels good to be living life in slo-mo.
2. Bridging Gaps with Technology
Personal contact with friends and family doesn’t exist right now. But it’s been fantastic to use modern technology to stay in touch. We’ve had our first Zoom chats and continue to make the most of WhatsApp and Skype for other video calls. Better than using two cans and a piece of string like the olden days.
3. Appreciating the small stuff
The pandemic has made us realise just how much we take for granted. Hugging a loved one, going for coffee with friends, nipping to the pub to watch the rugby are all things we’ve done without really appreciating it. We’re also appreciating all the small businesses who we used to use. Where possible we’re still buying from them to do our small part to keep them afloat.
4. The Weather
Living in Wales, there’s no guarantees of good weather. The floods we had in February are testament to that. But we’ve been so lucky to have sunshine quite regularly since lockdown. This has definitely been good for our wellbeing and we’ve spent lots of time outside exercising (within the government guidelines).
5. Working from home
Working from home is the new normal for many of us now. It’s surprising how adaptable we’ve had to become. That’s not to say that it’s an easy process though. Shout out to the parents that have had to work from home AND homeschool at the same time. Don’t know how you do it.
6. Asking ‘how are you?’ and really meaning it
Pre-pandemic our ‘hi how are you’ question seemed a bit shallow. It now feels like when we ask it, we really mean it. Plus people seem more willing to share how they really are feeling with their answer. We might not be in a situation we can change right now, but it’s important to talk if you’re struggling.
7. Social Distance Respect
In our local community, people are really respectful of the two meter rule. This is very reassuring when we’re out for a walk or need to pop to the shops. People also seem genuinely grateful if you have to step into the road to let them pass you on the pavement. Keep on keeping your distance; we’re not out of the woods yet!
8. Getting little jobs done
In our new slow pace of life, we’ve ticked off little chores around the house and in the campervan. At a leisurely pace we’ve been cleaning, tidying and sorting and it feels good, rather than it feeling like a chore. We’e also joined a house-sitting website for future adventures.
9. Celebrating differently
Plans to meet up for Mum & Dad Mahoney’s 50th Wedding Anniversary were well and truly squished. The best we could do was to schedule a Skype call but we surprised them with a video of messages from other family members and friends. Amy’s sister’s birthday was also strange; no hugs and kisses, just a card and pressie left in the garden when on a dog walk. No doubt there will be time in the future to celebrate all of the missed birthdays and anniversaries when life gets back to some sense of normal.
10. Using time to reflect
The slow pace of life has helped us to reflect on what’s really important to us right now. Health is the number one concern; staying safe is our main priority. We’ve also started to make plans for the future; thinking about what really makes us happy and making some new life goals.
What positives have you taken from the current situation? Would be great to hear your thoughts.
(Blog post main image by Alexas_Fotos from Pixabay)