How have we felt about life in lockdown for the past year?
The group largely felt that there have been many ups and downs in lockdown. Some enjoyed the slower pace of life, found comfort with less responsibilities, less pressure on how we choose to spend our time with lockdown providing a valid reason for why we cannot attend some social events or weddings, enjoyed a more simple way of living and prioritising what works best for us. The group also expressed the difficulties of life in lockdown, such as feeling lonely, isolated, missing physical affection from loved ones, experiencing furlough and redundancy, managing one’s mental wellbeing and family members.
How do we feel about eventually returning to some kind of normality?
The group had a general sense of nervousness yet excitement about life after lockdown. This included seeing friends and family, navigating social events, returning to the workplace. In response to the lockdown, many have made significant changes in their life, like returning home and working from home, and we need to think about what changes, if any, we want to make with the easing of lockdown restrictions.
Some other interesting discussion points included:
- Lockdown serving as a ‘shield’ against people and situations that make us feel uncomfortable or unhappy and how we will address this as the ‘shield’ will be removed.
- Generational narrative around ‘selfish behaviour’ for women. After lockdown, we should continue to say ‘no’ to people and situations that drain our energy. Lockdown has reminded us that it is not selfish to look after our needs and protect our peace of mind.
Are there any tools or techniques which might help with the transition?
- To reduce the stress of the questions and decisions we will have for life after lockdown, we should write these down with potential answers.
- Saying ‘no’ is okay.
- Continue to find time for coping mechanisms discovered in lockdown, such as exercise, meditating etc.
- Flexible working, such as three days at home and two days in the office.
