In the Return to Normal, Consider what Parts of Normal are Worth Returning to

I cannot claim credit for this quote - Dave Hollis was the man who said this gem. But really, consider what he is saying here. Many of us have spent this quarantine time wishing for life before, life as we knew it. Wouldn’t you say though that there have been some positive aspects to this “Great Pause”, as I’ve heard it called? 
Was everything in our world perfect before COVID-19 turned it upside down? Likely not. I think the quarantine presented us with a beautiful opportunity to observe how we could still function and thrive, even in the midst of crazy upheaval. We spent time thinking about how we were taking care of our bodies so that we didn’t get sick. We were intentional with how we spent our time out in public. We learned how to juggle new schedules while working from home with our kids out of school. 
Now presented with extended time with our loved ones at home, what surprised you? I’m sure there were hard aspects to it, and we all have looked forward to having more freedom in our lives, but what were some positive things that you noticed? 
My husband was home more, meaning that my kids and I got to spend more time with him. I spent more time talking with my parents and siblings. We had a Zoom birthday party for my dad (my siblings and I all live in different states so we usually aren’t with him on his birthday anyway), which would have never happened if we weren’t all confined to our homes and needing to connect with each other. My husband and I have also been more intentional with spending our money locally, opting to eat at local restaurants and giving bigger tips. The “Howl for Missoula” effort was a really great way to connect our community together. 
There has also been a conscious effort by others to focus on the positive things happening in our world. A lot of the mainstream media stories focused on horror and hysteria, which can be very mentally and emotionally exhausting. Actively seeking joy and creating joy for others was another way I saw come together, like putting bears in windows for “bear hunts” for kids or writing encouraging chalk messages on the sidewalk.
If we rush to return to life pre-covid, I think we missed the opportunity to learn some interesting lessons about life could look different and still be sustainable and enjoyable. Consider the aspects of normal you want to return to and consider the aspects from this time that you want to carry forward as well.
And as always, be well, stay healthy, and get adjusted my friends!

Peace, Love, and Wellness,
​Dr. Morgan