Are You in Need of Some Warm and Fuzzies? 8 Good Things to Come From the COVID-19 Pandemic
What a difficult year 2020 has been! Our hearts go out to all that have been affected by Covid-19.
It's been hard to find good news lately, but as my husband Stephen says, I am an eternal optimist, and I do want to spread some warm and fuzzy vibes. So, let's check out some of the positive things that have happened this year.
1. Lower Carbon Emissions
Greenhouse gas emissions are predicted to fall by almost eight percent - marking the largest decrease ever.1 The economic slowdown, while painful, has led to cleaner air all over the world.
2. Working Habits are Changing
While many workers are not able to work from home, some jobs have switched to remote work. Here are a few ways in which the switch has been a plus:
- More quality time with your family
- Savings on gas and travel expenses
- More flexibility to do things like workout
- More time to hit the snooze button in the morning
- Children and family members get to see what you actually do!
3. Let's Hear it for our Essential Workers
It has been heartwarming to see videos of people applauding healthcare workers when they switch shifts or delivering meals to nurses and doctors who are working late hours to care for coronavirus patients.
Delivery drivers, shelf-stackers and grocery store cashiers are also being recognized for working hard to ensure that people are getting the food and other essential items that they need.
4. We’re Connecting With Loved Ones
Most of us have found ourselves with more time on our hands. With this free time, we’ve found ways to connect with friends and family who are near and far. Thanks to video conferencing, anyone can easily spend time with friends and family--virtually. Even though this isn’t as good as the “real thing,” it makes it easier to keep in touch while we wait for better times.
5. More Community Involvement
From community singalongs to hosting food drives, people are coming together to help others and boost everyone's spirit. While these times are incredibly difficult, people are offering their time, money and resources to help out where they can.
6. More People Are Getting Outdoors
With less time spent in the car and the office, people are finding more time to get outside and enjoy our surroundings. As long as you get moving in a socially distanced and safe way, heading outside can be a great way to stay active. Don't forget to wear your mask and wash your hands (advice from the mom in me...)
8. People Have Been Focusing On Hobbies or Self-Improvement
Whether it's painting, personal training, learning guitar or simply reading, more people have been focusing on their personal passions than ever before. With the extra time on everybody’s hands and the need to stay home, it’s been an effective way to stay busy and productive in light of all that’s going on.
The pandemic has turned the world upside down, but taking away something positive will make you more grateful, help you find the good in others and make you mentally stronger as we all go through this together.
Interested in learning more? Please connect with us.
The author does not intend to provide investment, legal or tax advice as these materials are for general educational purposes only. Please consult your legal, tax or investment professional for advice on your particular situation. This material is derived from sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy and the opinions based thereon are not guaranteed. It is not intended to be a solicitation, offer or recommendation to acquire or dispose of any investment or to engage in any other transaction. Investing involves risk including the possible loss of principal. Past performance does not guarantee future results. Please refer to RRCM’s Form ADV Part 2 for additional disclosures regarding RRCM and its practices.