Lockdown Lessons

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As we enter the next phase of re-opening in BC, it feels like a good time to reflect on the past few months. Whilst far from being over, the enforced lockdown that came with the Covid-19 Pandemic, taught me some important lessons I hope to carry forward.

1) Slow Down

Life moves so fast and we often don’t stop to enjoy the small things. Being forced to limit our movements and activities, spend more time at home and more time with family has forced us to slow down and appreciate what is really important

2) Good Work Ethics

I’ve always worked well alone and felt I would be productive at home, but at first I struggled with boundaries. It turns out routine is super important so I have learned to create a structure and stick to strict working hours and log out at the same time daily to ensure I still have my personal time in the evenings.

3) Importance of Exercise

Exercise does not come naturally to me, I’ve always had to force myself to exercise, an absolute not morning person and too tired to go to the gym in the evenings. But working from home has introduced me to the joy of lunch time runs. Now not only do I have more time to incorporate exercise to my most energetic hours, but I actually look forward to getting outside everyday, away from my laptop and working out.

4) Quarantined by Force Vs. Quarantined by Choice

I have always been the type of person that needed a day alone every few weeks to reset, recharge and be able to face society again, surprisingly that didn’t change in lockdown. Granted my social interactions were reduced significantly, I was now however living, working and spending all my time with my boyfriend, so I still needed that ‘me time’. A solo walk, run or trip to the beach with a book helped my headspace and makes me a much better person to be around. This proves that being quarantined and having dedicated ‘me time’ is totally different.

5) Importance of Communication

As mentioned above, I can be a bit of a loner! I have to actively set time aside to check in with friends and family I don’t see often. I live abroad so often these phone calls and FaceTimes can be a lengthy catch up! As my communication with my whole circle became digital it made me realize how much I value these check in’s and became more of a daily habit. I cherish the virtual (and of course personal) interactions so much more now than before.

6) Saving and Spending

I was lucky enough to keep my job and not face any financial changes during the pandemic. By not having any social events, commuting costs, trips and by avoiding unnecessary online shopping, I actually managed to save a bit of money. This highlighted that a lot of my spending was discretionary and unnecessary and I can really save when I put my mind to it. A realization I hope to be more mindful about outside of lockdown.

7) Showing Gratitude Matters

Before the pandemic, most of us probably had a different view point about who ‘essential workers’ were. Whilst the nightly 7pm cheer for the healthcare workers is still going strong in Vancouver, it’s important to be grateful for everyone who worked, volunteered, called, share information or contributed in any way to helping us all move to the next phase. Being friendly, polite, patient, smiling and saying thank you to any worker or person you encounter is so important to show our gratitude to their service and to acknowledge that we are all in this together. Showing gratitude feels good but it also encourages gratitude in return. Offering sincere gratitude helps to build a more compassionate society, and we could all use that.

8) Strength in Community

The pandemic showed us how we’re are all connected, on an international level. It also highlighted the good in the community. People pulled together in both simple and unimaginable ways to help those who needed it, and the community as a whole. It has been inspiring to see the good in so many people. Are you feeling inspired by the support in your community? Our YWiB Community has been working hard to stay connected and help inspire. If you are looking to join a new community, our doors are always open, please feel free to reach out vancouver@ywib.ca

My Takeaway Points

  • Move more

  • Get outdoors

  • Enjoy the small things

  • Communication is key

  • Be more mindful when spending

  • Never take for granted a barista made coffee!

Blog post by Martha Fallon
Martha is a Social Media Coordinator for YWiB Vancouver. Martha hails from Ireland and is a keen traveler who enjoys exploring the vast landscapes of Canada.