By: Ulliance, Inc.
In less than a year, COVID-19 has changed our daily lives and sense of normal, forever. For all of the havoc the virus has caused, however, some of the changes imposed by COVID-19 can be viewed through a positive lens.
Let’s take a look at five positive changes COVID-19 has implemented and sustained.
The Earth Is Getting a Break
After months of less road, waterway, and air traffic, levels of pollution and greenhouse gas emissions are going down considerably. Around the globe, we are seeing clearer waters, and wild animals are roaming more freely in their habitats than they have in many years.
Both NASA and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have launched research projects aimed at investigating the impact of reduced vehicle traffic, air travel, shipping, manufacturing, and other activities on Earth’s atmosphere and oceans. Scientists say that if we can apply some of the environmental lessons we’re learning now, even after the world finds a sense of normalcy again, we might hope to avoid some of the most destructive impacts of climate change.
A New Sense of Connection and Collaboration
The forced separation brought on by coronavirus has made us more creative in the ways we work, live, and play together. From surprise birthday parties on Zoom, to virtual kindergarten classes and high school graduations, we’re not only finding new ways to adapt to the current situation, we’re letting something that could easily keep us apart, bring us together.
The virus has also connected the scientific community under a common goal, and doctors and researchers across the globe are working together, at breakneck speed, to find a cure.
New and Renewed Hobbies
Coronavirus slowed a fast-moving society to a near halt. Fewer commutes. No travel. No entertainment. What were we to do? Rather than slumping into a corner, we got moving. We found new fitness routines. We read books. We baked a lot of bread. All of which are great ways to get a handle on mental health during an especially trying time, according to the Mayo Clinic. During this especially tumultuous period, a lot of folks headed outside, and something as simple as spending more time outdoors can do wonders for improving your mental state.
Making Spaces Beautiful Again
Exploring every corner of my surrounding neighborhoods during the pandemic, people’s porches, flowers, and homes have never looked so beautiful. Many homeowners took to home renovations like staining or replacing decks and fences, painting homes, and replacing screen doors. Many of us have followed suit—if we have to be stuck in our own space for months on end, then we want a shelter in place to be as shiny and polished as possible.
Renewed Need for Work-Life Balance
One of our counselors was asked what they learned during the pandemic, and he said, “During the Shelter-at-home order, I’ve learned how important it is to strike a healthy work-life balance. Intellectually, I understood the importance, and I have even helped many others try and improve their own sense of work-life balance, but it wasn’t until the shutdown that I realized I needed to practice what I preached. I learned it takes a deliberate approach and that it is important to strive for a healthy balance, even when you do not feel the need. It’s not enough to only attend to it when things are bad; best to keep at it all the time.”
We would have to agree, the shelter in place has awoken us to many areas in our own lives that need balance and discipline. Working for a company focused on well-being, we are always promoting total wellness, but it is far too easy to lose sight of your own needs when trying to help others.
Has COVID-19 forced some positive in your daily work routine? Despite environmental benefits, making new connections, and revisiting hobbies, your employees need emotional support and resources. Learn more about what Ulliance, Inc. can provide here.
