In a survey of 1000 people from all walks of life, 58% say that the pandemic has changed their way of life forever. Nearly three-quarters (72%) said that they still have hope for the future.
I notice that I’m feeling subtly different over the last year. Perhaps, externally, those who know me will recognize nothing different other than a couple of extra pounds. It’s my internal monologue that is changing. I find that I have more patience with nasty drivers. I have more patience with waiting in line and on the freeway. When others behave badly, first I may have some snippy thought, then find myself asking ways that I might have done the same thing in the past. Gosh, I’m mellowing!

Also, as I have noted before, I got clear that I didn’t want to stay in Austin as it gets increasingly congested, with property taxes soaring. I began checking the house for needed repairs and did upgrades. I located a realtor, sold my house, and began looking for a home in San Marcos. I became comfortable with zoom clearing sessions, previously just a novelty for me.

In regard to changes, I read an article yesterday written by a woman who has stayed home for work during this time. She stated that she will never again agree to wear uncomfortable clothing such as underwire bras, tight jeans, or high heels. Hallelujah!

I suspect virtually no one has been left untouched after 12 months of such dramatic disruption. The loss of connection with other people, the restriction of movement, the anxiety regarding illness has impacted people around the world. While stress has spiked for most of us, therapists say that personal growth has, too. The pandemic is the great accelerant. A crisis of this scale can enable people who have been stuck to pull the trigger on major life decisions such as a marriage, a divorce, quitting a job, or a move. It has, for some, sparked a renewal in spiritual practices such as yoga, meditation, and daily prayer.

A generous dose of empathy and understanding will bring us back together and make us stronger as we navigate this time. And as you move forward, remember that I am available to assist you with your stuck places.