The Most Valuable Lessons I Learned During the Pandemic
Health, first and foremost, is everything.
“Every cloud has a silver lining” couldn’t be more true about the pandemic. At least, that’s how I try to see it. During the beginning of COVID-19, it was challenging to adapt to an unexpected lifestyle change of social distancing and sheltering in place. But as the year went on, I began to reflect more inward and realized there’s a lot to be grateful for. As the world reopens, we can collectively make it a better one by implementing lessons learned throughout this time. Here are my most valuable takeaways—hopefully, they can serve as a positive pick-me-up and mindset shift.
Create A Self-Care Routine
COVID-19 was a wake-up call to take better care of my health. It made me realize the importance of a strong immune system and preventative action. If we take care of ourselves, we’ll be in the right mindset and have the physical capability to take care of others, too. I’m grateful for those in the medical field who have worked tirelessly to help save the world throughout the pandemic. If we can all do something to make their jobs easier—and our lives better—it’s to dedicate time for self-care.
Since staying indoors more and spending extra time in front of my computer and phone, I noticed my eyes felt and looked more fatigued. Recently, I’ve tried the Clarins Total Eye Lift, which instantly provided comfort and relief to my under-eye area. The fast-absorbing formula just melts and “lifts” my skin—I was pleasantly surprised by how fast it minimized my dark circles and puffiness. What makes it so powerful is its ingredients of 94% natural origin like organic harungana extract and cassie flower wax which also reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. If you’ve been lacking sleep, this might just be a savior to look well-rested (although there’s no substitute to shut-eye!).
Adapt to Change
If there’s a situation that’s beyond your control, the best thing you can do is embrace it. Instead of dreaming of brunch with friends like in the old days, I spent a lot of time dining in. Although now many restaurants are open again and I’ve been going out every once in a while, I’ve realized the perks of having meals at home. I’m not much of a chef but even putting simple food on fancy plates has brightened up my days.
This Juliska Cherry Blossom 4-Piece Place Setting is a work of art that can be used and admired every day. The floral design on the ceramic dinner plate, dessert plate, cereal bowl, and mug, adds a touch of elegance to any dining table. Besides aesthetics, I also love that this set is microwave, dishwasher, and freezer safe.
Nurture Relationships
With social distancing, keeping in touch with friends and family has been more important than ever. Last March, I went to visit my mom on Long Island from New York City and ended up staying for almost six months. One perk of living in our day and age is the fact that we can virtually connect with our loved ones through phone calls, Zoom, and FaceTime.
But what if you want to take it a step further than saying, “I’m thinking of you”? One way to do so is to send them a small gift. Perhaps this Citrus Dulcis Carrière Frères Candle can brighten up their day due to the botanical and aromatic scent. Overall, it’s not the monetary value of the gift you choose; it’s the thought that counts.
Slow Down and Enjoy the Little Things
Being in the suburbs around flowers, trees and fresh air opened my eyes to something I didn’t fully take the time to enjoy in the city. Last summer, I re-discovered just how incredible nature is by taking walks around the block. I went running and bike riding, and felt like a kid again. Sometimes, it’s the little things that mean the most. We only live once, and if we constantly rush to the next thing, we’re missing out on what’s in front of us.
To fully enjoy activities indoors or out, a comfy set such as the Cotton Citizen Milan Hoodie and Shorts is much needed. There were times that I felt like dressing up just because, and although that’s always a mood-booster, there’s nothing more relaxing than being in loungewear. This top and bottom duo is easily the unofficial uniform of quarantine and post-quarantine.
Be Financially Prepared
The pandemic also dramatically impacted our overall economy. The shift in closures everywhere caused so many scenarios like jobs to disappear and businesses to close. One lesson to be learned through this time is to start or continue adding to your savings fund. Being prepared for financial emergencies is necessary since we don’t know what will happen tomorrow. Having finances in place just in case can also bring you more peace of mind.
Everyone’s case is different, but saving even just a little over time can add up. The SOLIGT Monthly Budget Planner can work as a guide to track your expenses and goals in one place. This one includes 12 monthly budget pages and pre-filled categories so you can plug in your numbers and see your finances, store your bills, receipts, and notes, all in one place.
Wendy Sy is a fashion, beauty, and lifestyle writer based in New York City. In addition to her editorial website, Style Meets Story, her work has been featured in Allure, Avenue Magazine, InStyle, and more. When she’s not brainstorming ideas for upcoming articles, you can find her spending countless hours searching for lost treasures at vintage shops. Photo by Sophie Elgort.
As the world reopens, we can collectively make it a better one by implementing lessons learned throughout this time.
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