The COVID-19 pandemic changed so much for all of us. Some changes have taken some getting used to, but there’s a lot I like about my new normal. Really! I have a new appreciation for so many things… and I think I’m coming out of this a better person. This pandemic changed my life, and I’m grateful for my new mindset. Here’s why!
I’m More Mindful
Living through a pandemic made me more aware of my surroundings and how my activities can impact others. I don’t want to spread germs and viruses to my loved ones. Before the pandemic, if I was sick, I’d obviously try to be considerate! But now I’m much more mindful of my whereabouts. I don’t want to pick something up and spread it to people like my grandson or older family members. I make more educated decisions about whether I’m going to do something that might cause further spread of the virus.
I’m Supporting Local Businesses More
I’ve always shopped locally, but watching so many local businesses struggle makes me want to do more. I’m a business owner too, and my heart goes out to them! I love buying things from local shops and getting carryout from local restaurants or eating on their patios. Now, I make a more conscious effort to support our small businesses, because they’re the backbone of this nation. Shout out to all you small business owners!
I Appreciate Our Essential Workers
The last couple of months have made me keenly aware of how important our essential workers are. My towing business is considered essential, so I’ve seen the realities and hardships of operating during the early stages of the pandemic. Let me tell you… it was tough! I think the whole country learned how vital essential workers and businesses are to our daily lives.
We should support our nursing staff, doctors, police officers, and firefighters who serve us all, day-in and day-out, in any way we can. There are good people and bad people in any industry, and we shouldn’t label a bunch because of the few who might be giving them a bad reputation! I fully support all of our essential workers. I hope everyone continues to stand behind them now and in the future.
I’m More Tuned into People’s Needs
I’m way more tuned in to what others need now, and how they might feel about certain situations. I have friends who want to wear masks when we get together. They actually prefer that we all wear masks, so I do that for them… no questions asked. I understand their worries, and I don’t want to make them feel uncomfortable. I’m grateful that I’m more mindful of other people’s feelings and concerns now.
I also have family who are very anxious about this virus. I do what I can to make sure they know I’m taking every precaution. I’m social distancing, not touching anyone (ugh, I miss hugs!), and sanitizing and washing my hands. I’ve become very cautious about who I spend time with, and when I see my family, I stay far away, because I want them to feel safe being around me.
I Love Connecting Virtually
One of the silver linings of this pandemic is discovering all the things we can do virtually. I love virtual meetings and conferences. Do I miss face-to-face, in-person connections? Absolutely! But with Zoom and other virtual options, I save so much time. I don’t have to travel for work, and I save tons of money. I feel like I can accomplish so much work in less time, and I’m definitely more productive! Going virtual is definitely one of the best ways the pandemic changed my life.
My New Work Life Works for Me
This pandemic forced me to decide whether or not I should cut back on my employees’ hours (or their jobs altogether), and I chose to cut my own hours instead. My employees work hard and have been very faithful to me. I wanted to make sure they knew I was there for them during a difficult time. Plus, it ended up being a win for everyone. I’ve been way more efficient with my new time. I’m actually hoping my hours never go back to “normal” — I like my new work life!
This pandemic changed my life, and I’m excited about my new normal. I think we can all take a lot away from what happened during this pandemic. We can be more kind, understanding, and definitely more productive and efficient in the way we run our lives. It might take some getting used to, but trust me: there are good things ahead for us!
-Michelle