Lessons from a Pandemic

Without a doubt, our lives have changed and continue to change during 2020. This year has been a very long year in which we have struggled to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic. And even though everything seemed to be getting better after the summer, unfortunately, we realised the second ‘wave’ is worse than the first.

But everyone has a different point of view and a different way of handling this pandemic. Governments are no different. There have been different approaches: complete lockdowns, limited or prohibited activities, or doing barely anything. I don’t think any choice is more correct than the other; each choice may suit the context of the people in the related country.

This virus also separates us in terms of thinking most of the time: Some think it is better to wear a facemask. Someone else thinks facemasks are not necessary. Another is asking themself how the virus was born. And there are still those who think the virus does not exist.

Class in session

Anyway, our approach to normal life is changing. It is unavoidable. We have to learn this lesson and avoid thinking, ‘everything will be as before the pandemic’. It will not be, and this is ok. The virus exposed errors and flaws in systems, and it is important to understand how to fix these problems for both governments and companies. And what about for ourselves? Is there anything you used to overlook for which you can now see its value?

My learnings

• I’ve taken things for granted: I am more aware of familial warmth, personal relationships, sporting activities, and health.
• There is value in a smart work-life balance: I’ve started running outdoors when I am not working. I have restored a fixed-gear bike. Also, my girlfriend and I restored some furniture together, and we are becoming very good chefs!
• Accepting change (in general) is a good start: Often, we reject change or we try to hinder it. Instead, I think we should have a new approach, circumventing changes in our favour.

Therefore, if I have to draw on the positive things of the pandemic, these would be some, and I am very happy about that.

What do I mean?

Sometimes, I imagine myself in the future, when I will be 40 years old, remembering and recounting the story of this strange year that was 2020 and how we faced this pandemic. This brings me even closer to the things I listed above and gives me strength.

We’ve seen all the negative consequences of the pandemic but now, let’s draw on the positive lessons we’re being taught during the pandemic.