COVID-19-Driven Changes That Should Be the New Normal

A guest article by Emma Grace Brown

The pandemic was incredibly challenging on several levels. Not only did it cause great mental and financial hardship, but it also underscored the unpredictability of life. Still, as turbulent and traumatic as the event was, it imparted many valuable lessons and was a catalyst for far-reaching, positive change. Below, Nursing With Anitha takes a look at corona-induced changes that we think should be the new normal moving forward:

Making self-care a priority

We were being bombarded with uncertainty, chaos, and disruptions from all sides. Many of us were also separated from our loved ones and usual sources of support. It forced us to look out for ourselves – mentally, emotionally, and physically. We learned how to be kinder, better manage our fears, come up with self-care routines, and look after our various needs better – it was necessary for survival. Self-care and self-support is a positive change, one we hope sticks around permanently.

Learning how to be happy at home

With free movement restricted, many of us were forced to spend time at home – often alone. We had to learn how to be happy there. Everyone did it differently. Some of us created a personal space that we could feel safe and comfortable in, full of the things we loved – like plants, reminders of childhood, and music. Others exercised or took up new hobbies like painting and gardening. In the future, with the lockdowns lifted, we can continue pursuing our newfound habits to be happier at home.

Supporting the local community

The pandemic drove home the importance of community. Everyone banded together and bravely stuck it out despite all the uncertainty. Nurses still cared for patients, the grocery clerks still stocked shelves, and cashiers continued ringing purchases. Everyone tried to support their communities more, whether financially or just by lending a helping hand to the people who needed it. Valuing our communities more and volunteering your support is something we should do more.

Making time for the things we love

Nothing forces you to realize your time on earth is limited like a pandemic. It’s important to put it to good use. Many of us have been ticking items off of our bucket lists – whether that’s picking up a new hobby, sampling a strange new cuisine, or finally taking a vacation to that exotic lockdown-free destination. With the lockdowns lifted and things moving back to normal, we should continue spending time on the things we love. After all, there is only one life.   

Enjoying the great outdoors

People have been spending more time in nature these past several months when they can’t stand to be at home anymore and need to get away from it all. In fact, according to The Conversation, it’s now a critical part of coping with the pandemic. It busts stress, makes you happier, and centers you mentally and emotionally. It’s also generally good for your heart and overall health. Spending a few hours every week enjoying nature should be a part of your new routine.

Getting on top of the shifting work landscape

With our usual routines busted, many of us had to scramble for new jobs and opportunities. We learned how to be flexible, take risks, and move in new career directions – and that, despite everything, we will make it. Some of us finally decided to take the plunge into working for ourselves, which might be the best option for the future because of the current gig economy.

If you do start a new business, remember to separate your personal assets from your business ones by registering as an LLC. When you form an LLC, you can expect less paperwork, more flexibility, limited liability, and some tax benefits. Filing the paperwork yourself or by using a formation service allows you to avoid hefty lawyer fees. Check your unique state rules and regulations before moving ahead.  

Taking advantage of telehealth and remote mental support

Hospitals and clinics were often booked to capacity during the peak of the pandemic, and sometimes people couldn’t be there physically due to travel restrictions. As a result, a lot more physicians took to consulting with their patients online. Telehealth – or healthcare via teleconferencing – is a wonderful development because it’s accessible, affordable, and convenient. People who have extreme social anxiety can benefit from getting support remotely from the safety of their homes.  

Conclusion

Declining mental health is leading to a crisis in America, says the American Psychological Association. But not all hope is lost. By embracing the wholesome changes mentioned above, we can better support ourselves, communities, and families and build a healthier, more positive tomorrow collectively.  

About the Author:

Emma Grace Brown lives her life by her rules; and it works! When she’s not snuggling puppies, Emma promotes female empowerment through her website. Her mission is to help those who live with self-doubt to realize they don’t have to mold themselves to conventionality.