The coronavirus has turned our world upside-down in ways we could have never imagined.
But along with the disruption and uncertainty, the past few months have presented an opportunity to adapt and learn. Like with most tough times, self-isolation has a few unexpected silver linings – from more time with family to saving some extra cash.
We asked some of the RAQ team to share the positive lessons they’ve learnt during COVID-19.
I learnt to embrace the art of slowing down
"I’ve been getting back to basics and enjoying the simple pleasures life on slow-mode has to offer. I’ve absolutely loved spending time in my garden and growing herbs and fresh greens. Which of course leads to being able to get creative in the kitchen making delicious, fresh, wholesome meals while sipping fresh lemon balm tea and having the time to savour every mouthful."
- Shirley, Family and Relationship Counsellor
I learnt how great kids are at making their own fun
"Not being able to go out and ‘do things’ meant that we had to make do with what we had. We used toilet rolls for craft and built forts. We talked more and I got to show them new things. The nicest thing is that my kids learnt to play together without their parents. I feel more relaxed not having to ‘entertain’ them, instead letting them figure out what they’re going to do with their own time."
- Jesse, Program Manager
I learnt to take pleasure in preparing meals for loved ones
I've enjoyed having more time to get into the kitchen and prepare meals for my family. We usually eat out at least a couple of times a week, but with that not an option, I've remembered there's real pleasure in thoughtfully preparing food at home and sharing it with loved ones. I've been able to involve my 2.5-year-old in some of the process, which she enjoys so much that I don't even mind the added clean up!
- Lauren, Communications Manager
I learnt more about the strengths of my relationship
Since both my partner and I have been working from home for several months now, I was concerned as to what effect that would have on our relationship. However, a positive life lesson learnt during COVID-19 was that our love is stronger than a pandemic, that we have enjoyed our company more and more, and that we got to see each other’s work values, ethics and structure in a new way. I am excited to use the things I have learnt from him in a post-COVID-19 world.
- Ryan, Gambling Help Services Counsellor
I learnt to take stock of my spending habits
Pre-coronavirus, I was accustomed to tapping my card for unnecessary conveniences (AKA snacks) every day. These thoughtless purchases quickly added up to take a decent chunk out of my income. The last few months have allowed me to take stock of my spending habits and budget better to save for the important things.
- Adrien, Digital Marketing Coordinator
I learnt how important connecting with my family is
Even though we have been together far more than ever before, we've had to commit to finding pockets of genuine quality time with each other. It was a big discovery that the solution to being together all the time was spending even more time as a family, but it's been really lovely forging even stronger ties through a period where we've needed to really lean on each other.
- Caitlin, Business Transformation Engagement Manager
I learnt to pause to enjoy nature
I learnt to take a few minutes away from my day-to-day activities to pause, go to my balcony, and admire the views of nature. Now I start my day with an awesome view and my favourite cup of coffee.
- Aniket, Web Developer
I learnt to throw myself into new challenges
During COVID, I’ve found myself with a lot more free time than I’ve had in the past. One of the most rewarding ways I’ve been spending that time is taking up new hobbies. I’ve been teaching myself to play guitar, and there’s nothing more relaxing than sitting out in the sun at the end of a long day and playing a little bit better than I did yesterday.
- Kristin, Marketing Communications Officer
I learnt to build motivation cues in the home office
Working consistently at home on my own meant I had to find different ways to keep up my motivation. One way I did this was how I designed my home office setup. Since I like a standing desk, I used our family games like Monopoly, LIFE, and Pirateology to make a safe, fun work place that gave me more inspiration. I also mixed it around if I had a project that needed a special flavour, like adding in the games of Battleships or Dixit if I was writing a funding proposal.
- Helen, Regional Manager
I learnt how adaptable people can be
The biggest thing I've learnt is that our clients are so adaptive, agile, and flexible. This has been a huge change and overall they've responded to our change in service delivery very positively.
- Sue, Head of Operations