Most of us shiver just from hearing the words “mask”, “unprecedented”, “social distancing”, “quarantine” and other terms birthed from the COVID-19 pandemic.

We long to move on to brighter days, and put COVID-19 behind us, like a dirty family secret. How nice would it be to zap yourself with the memory eraser from Men in Black? Sign me up!

I’m sure we would all be happy to drop everything we learned during this pandemic, and return to a blissfully naive life.

 A lot of heartbreak and lessons have come out as a result of the pandemic. We have learned a lot about who we are as a country, as individuals, and how flexible and resilient we are as a species.

I thought it would be insightful to look back on the past 18 months and see which practices have been developed as a result of the global epidemic, that we would like to continue, even after the pandemic ends.

1. Curbside Pickup/grocery delivery – This one is a no-brainer. We as humans love nothing more than food, and having it brought to us with little effort. These practices are not just convenient for lazy folks, but busy parents, the elderly, and hardworking professionals alike. Effortless grocery shopping I hope is here to stay!

2. Working from home – Two words: space and cost. These two things will save employers a significant amount of money if working from home continues in our future. Although working from home is not a new concept, a lot of employers now recognize its true value during the pandemic. I would love to see a future where there was a nice balance between working from home and going into the office a few days a week. Does anyone want to share a desk?

3. Wearing masks in public when you are sick – In many Asian countries, face masks were an accepted way of life, long before COVID-19. Although not a mandated practice, many people in Japan wear masks if they are ill during cold and flu seasons to protect others while out in public. Although masks can be controversial, if you are open to the idea, I would hold on to them for cold and flu season, or when travelling abroad.

4. Embracing the outdoors – Some people say the pandemic was mother earth’s way of telling us to slow down. We see more emphasis on spending time outside, since shopping centers, movie theatres, and restaurants are closed. More outdoor time can be a positive thing for children and adults alike. Stretch, play, walk, run, meditate, build a fort… the opportunities are truly endless. Your physical and mental health will thank you for it by continuing this practice.

5. Online meetings – “You’re muted”, “Can you see my screen?”. It’s no denying that online meetings have been the punch line for many jokes over the past year, but as painful as technology can sometimes be, it has also allowed us to connect more conveniently than ever before. Some organizations have proven that you can still have a  successful business without seeing your staff in person all year. And don’t tell me you aren’t still enjoying wearing pajama pants to important zoom calls. This one’s a keeper!

6. Social distancing – Personal space has always been a big passion of mine. This one goes without saying, let’s continue to respect others’ space in 2022!

7. Bigger focus on mental and physical health – After having many discussions with friends and family, one common theme I have seen is a bigger emphasis on mental and physical health. More people are working out, meditating, learning about mindfulness, spending money on home workout equipment, and scheduling sessions with their therapist, and I love to see it! After decades of overworking ourselves, eating poorly, and holding in our feelings – you deserve the attention to invest time in self-care and self-love. Do it for yourself!

8. Comfy fashion – Tell me right now, do you have a favourite pair of sweatpants? Maybe it’s a full tracksuit ensemble? Are you thinking about “the one”? Why have we spent years putting on clothes that don’t feel comfortable?! No more! Moving forward let’s only wear clothes that make us feel good! (Discloser; I’m not suggesting you only ever wear sweatsuits, the jeans need to come out of the closet at some point!)

9. Increase hygiene – This is a win for everyone! I don’t know about you, but I’ve never washed my hands more. Now that it’s become a good habit, I’m confident it’s one we will carry on into the future.

What are your favourite practices that have come out of the pandemic? I would love to hear your thoughts in the article comments below.

KRISTEN SALERNO

MARKETING COORDINATOR

My job as DC’s Marketing Coordinator is to show clients, partners, and the public that a healthier and safer world is possible.

With a background in Broadcast Journalism and a passion for videography, I help create brand content that is educational, engaging, and provides value to our clients.

When I am not working, you can find me up in Northern Ontario with my Husband, snowshoeing, fishing, or playing with our border collie/blue heeler named Merlin.