The pandemic has challenged our world in multiple ways. Pandemic limitations have upset norms in every corner of life. How can we use this reality to forward better living forward, what can we do?
Rethink life in the United States
I think this is a good time to rethink living in the United States? What needs to change going forward so that we retain the best of life before the pandemic and we adopt new schedules, structures, and routines we've embraced during the pandemic that are positive. These questions will help us rethink and revise life?
- In what ways has family life been better during the pandemic? Did you have more time with your family? Was commuting time reduced due to working at home? Was the reduction of afterschool activities positive or not so positive for your family?
- How was work better during the pandemic? Were expectations more reasonable or less reasonable? What pandemic work practices do you want to continue, and what do you want to change?
- How was schooling better or not as good for your children and family during the pandemic?
- What helped or hurt your budget during the pandemic?
- With regard to your family's recreation choices, what new hobbies and good times did you discover during the pandemic and what pre-pandemic recreation do you want to enjoy once again?
As I think of the pandemic plusses and losses, I'd like to see the following changes in the United States:
- More reasonable work expectations for all families and a move towards the four-day work week as a staple. Unreasonable work expectations and low pay limit citizens' ability to take part in our democracy--we need the participation of all and this is one of many reasons why realist work expectations are necessary.
- A move towards at least one work/learn from home day each week for students and workers.
- Continuation of the many great tech tools people have adopted during the pandemic.
- Continued outdoor exploration and adventures.
- Efforts to provide struggling families with regular economic support to uplift their lives and communities.
- A return to family gatherings, restaurants, shopping, the arts, theater, music, and sports events.
- A return to in-school teaching/learning once all educators (and students) are vaccinated.
There is great opportunity to take the time to think today about the post-pandemic life we want to support in the days ahead. Onward.