Things I learned during COVID-19
It goes without saying that 2020 has been a doozy. COVID-19 has actually taken up more of the year than pre-COVID. Let that sink in.
It’s been about five months since COVID-19 really took hold in the U.S., which has been plenty of time for me to learn some life lessons.
1. Stir craziness is 100% real.
My company has been working from home since mid-March. It’s been very convenient—no commute, no packing a lunch, able to do laundry on my breaks. However, not leaving the house can really come with some negatives, as I’m sure many others have learned in 2020. I started to neglect myself; it became an effort to go for a run or take time to make myself happy. Once I realized that I needed to put effort into doing things just for me, my stir craziness seemed to lessen. Thank goodness!
2. Investing in yourself is totally worth it.
Again — putting time and effort into self care and reaching your goals will not go unrewarded.
3. Zoom meetings are wonderful…and tough.
My company has been using Slack, but same idea. I found that it’s been great to see people other than my roommates, but video conferences come with challenges. When I’m working from home, it’s rare to find me in something that isn’t a t-shirt, and makeup? Not so much. So far, my Zoom-mates haven’t been blinded.
4. Technology actually isn’t the answer to everything.
Working in the digital field, it can be easy to say, “I shouldn’t have to come in; all my work can be done from home.” Working remotely showed me that there really are benefits to real human interaction. For one, I think that some things can get done a lot faster in person than virtually. Someone may not have their notifications on or is away from their screen. The in-person alternative? Popping by someone’s office for a quick and easy question.
5. Relationships are more important than ever.
We’ve all seen the ads. “Together forward.” “Apart together.” Honestly, they’ve got a point.
Such a life-changing event like a pandemic really can (and should) bring people together, not only the global community, but your own inner circle, as well.
I spent some time FaceTiming and Zoom-ing my friends back home. I’ve even been social distancing at my parents’ place. Make a point to keep in touch with your loved ones and get out of the house (safely). You need it!
