COVID-19: How Humans Are Changing
COVID-19: How Humans Are Changing
There is little doubt that the global pandemic is going to change life as we know it forever. But how, exactly? Look out below for a few temporary – and sometimes hilarious – ways life has changed, as well as a few of the more impactful ways that the world will never be the same.
Hair Cuts Are No Longer High Fashion
Something none of us really considered back in March was that hairstylists would soon be completely out of commission. This has led to an amusingly large number of people trying to cut their own hair. And not just in the US. The BBC even reported on the phenomenon in early April. Keep in mind, however, that a bad haircut might take months to grow out. If you don’t want to emerge from this hiding your head under a hat, you’re probably better off waiting to make an appointment whenever the salons open back up.
New Careers Are On The Horizon
According to CNN, 22 million people sought unemployment in just four weeks, as of April 16. Unemployment numbers are unlikely to decrease anytime soon, and many Americans are actively seeking new positions. If you find yourself in that boat, consider it an opportunity to find a new line of work. Even if you choose to stick with the same industry or things won’t be rolling for a while, you can benefit from sprucing up for a job hunt now.
If it’s been some time since you’ve updated your resume, for instance, look for someone who can help you. The best resume writers don’t necessarily come from an agency, and you can find many online that are fast and affordable. Another idea is to work with a headhunter to find your ideal position. Unsure if you should change directions? A career coach can help determine if you’re on the right path.
Many Of Us Have Adopted A Pet
Like the funny haircuts, something else people failed to realize was just how lonely self-isolation would be. This has led to the adorable practice of adopting pets. And, as ABC News explains, many are even fostering just to have a companion until quarantine orders are lifted. This is both sweet and concerning because we have all seen what happens after an influx of Christmas puppy purchases. If you are thinking about bringing home a furry friend yourself, please keep in mind that these are not temporary family members (unless you are fostering). Dogs and cats can live well over a decade, so be prepared to make that kind of commitment.
Chickens Are Selling Out Like Wildfire
Have you ever thought about having your own farm-fresh eggs? Well, apparently, everyone else has. People are panic-buying baby chicks, which is not a sentence anyone could have uttered just a few months ago. Keep in mind that chickens do require a coop and basic care, so just like other pets, they might not be for everyone. Also on the hoarding list: toilet paper, baking supplies, and Spam.
Joe Exotic Is Our Savior
Perhaps the least surprising change that has resulted in the coronavirus pandemic is our new interest in Netflix– 3 million new users since January. Sports are canceled, and our favorite reality shows aren’t quite the same when they are filmed like a Zoom meeting. But what is surprising is what we have been watching. The Tiger King documentary miniseries has become our go-to television indulgence of choice. The main character, known as Joe Exotic, is our collective train wreck. It seems that many Americans can’t look away from this high-strung Oklahoman and his menagerie of both exotic animals and nontraditional employees.
The reality is that life will never be quite the same. While we will eventually fill the malls once again and finally get back to our chips and queso at the Mexican restaurant, some of these changes are going to stick. Although it is an anxious time, we can get through it together, and the changes we’re making will usher in a new era of the indomitable American spirit.
*** Written for Meridian Counseling by Adam Cook. Adam Cook is the founder of Addiction Hub, which locates and catalogs addiction resources.He is very much interested in helping people find the necessary resources to save their lives from addiction. His mission is to provide people struggling with substance abuse with resources to help them recover.