The pandemic has brought about numerous changes to everyone’s lives, whether it’s losing a job due to stay-at-home orders or learning to cut your own hair. Whether by force or by choice, we’re all adapting in one way or another to the pandemic era. And even though lockdowns are lifting in some areas, many are still opting to stay home until virus transmission slows.
Adapting to the Pandemic Era
While the pandemic forced major life changes on many, there are some silver linings. If your job was furloughed indefinitely or eliminated due to the pandemic, this could be an opportunity to embark on a new career or enhance your skill set. Some industries, such as entertainment and travel, have been put on pause or greatly reduced, so if you’re in an industry that was affected by the virus, you’d benefit from looking at alternatives. Assess your skills and determine if it’s a good time to go back to school and learn a new trade or gain a new certification. Some certifications can be obtained for free, so do some research and see what might help boost your skills or further your education.
With so much extra time spent at home, this could be a great time to adopt a new pet. If you adopt while you’re stuck at home, you’ll have plenty of time to work on training for a new pet, and having a furry friend with you will help alleviate feelings of loneliness. One thing to consider is how your life will change when the pandemic subsides; be sure that you’re able to continue offering the same level of care when it’s time to go back to work or school.
For those lucky enough to have a backyard, consider planting a garden. The health benefits of gardening are many-fold: you’ll gain a sense of purpose through planting seeds, you’ll get fresh air and some exercise, and you’ll enjoy the fruits (or vegetables) of your labor.
Even if cases of COVID-19 are reducing in your area, you may still be reluctant to go back to the salon or barber for a haircut. You can take matters into your own hands by learning to cut your own hair. It’s not rocket science, but there are some tips and tools that will help you get the job done right. For example, your kitchen scissors aren’t necessarily a good tool to use to trim your hair; think about buying a set of shears or clippers to make it a cleaner cut.
Life Changes That Can’t Wait
While most plans can be adjusted, some major life changes can’t wait for the pandemic to end. For example, expectant mothers won’t be able to press pause on their pregnancy, so it’s important to devise a birthing plan that can help you feel safe. If you want to avoid hospitals, research nearby birthing facilities that can keep you and your family far from the virus.
If your plans this year included buying a new home, you can still make it happen during the pandemic. There are some clever and easy online tools available for homebuyers, including 3D walkthroughs and video tours. It’s important to find a trusted real estate agent during this time who can help guide you and organize safe home visits when the time comes.
While many are still navigating changes that have come about due to COVID-19, there are plenty of ways to make the most of this time. You can upskill by gaining a new certification online, embark on a new career, or adopt a dog. If you’re ready to spend more time outside, planting a garden is a great way to get fresh air and feel productive. And finally, if you’re set on buying a new home, it’s still possible during the pandemic by using online viewing tools. This is also an opportunity to purposefully pursue relationships with loved ones in your life. Picking up the phone, having a FaceTime call, or playing a game on HouseParty can help you reconnect with those who matter most. The pandemic may be freeing up more of your time and filling it up with quality people and quality activities can help strengthen your mental and emotional health.
Post written by special guest, Jennifer Scott
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