Lessons I have Learned During the Lockdown

 Lessons I Have Learned During the Lockdown

The COVID-19 pandemic is nothing quite like anything any of us have experienced before. It is a time of grave concern as we try to flatten the curve and get through this together. Now as we all know, one of the best ways in which we can improve the outcome of this situation is by staying home. While we all hope for this pandemic to be behind us as soon as possible, I have learned that the lockdown has quite a lot to teach us in the meantime. 

1. That eating out all the time really does add up to a lot of money, and that cooking and eating at home can be quite fun when everyone takes part in it. Though, if you do order in, it is a good time to buy from good small businesses that may be struggling to stay afloat these days.

2. To waste less. To make the most of what we have and to become more inventive. Now that going to stores is risky, I am quickly realizing that a lot of the things I thought were so necessary aren't. I am learning that you can make something nice with the odd things you have left if you are inventive enough (check out Supercook - a great website that directs you to recipes based on the ingredients that you have).

3. That it's not the things I miss. It's the experiences and the people. 

4. That some things are worth spending a bit more on - things that make your house feel more luxurious, and that make you enjoy your time at home. Things that encourage good habits and that keep you healthy - medicine, good healthy food. Things that consistently make you happy.

5. How important an emergency fund truly is, because there is so much you cannot foresee. A few months ago, none of us could have imagined this pandemic and how much it would affect all our lives. The thing with emergencies is that you never can, so it pays to prepare in any possible way.

6. How lucky we are to have what we have, and to appreciate it more.

7. How important it is to help others who may be struggling. Now, more than ever, I think that we are seeing how closely connected we all are and how much the actions of one person can affect another. If you are able to, it's a good time to donate - whether it is food or money as people deal with financial insecurity, or even blood as blood banks are reportedly running low these days. Or these days when people are cooped up at home, if you think they might be lonely, even just checking on them by calling or texting would be nice.