Recently, I found myself spending hours browsing homes on a real estate website, and not just any homes – those located thousands of miles away. We’re not planning to move, and honestly, I don’t even desire a larger house.
Over the past year, I feel like I’ve morphed into someone unrecognizable. I fixate on things I once ignored, worry about low-risk scenarios, and experience envy over possessions I never wanted. What is happening to me?
This phenomenon is what I like to call “pandemic illusions.” We’re led to believe we want certain things that, in reality, don’t hold genuine value for us. This mindset can easily trick us into becoming someone we don’t want to be.
I’ve always preferred a minimalist lifestyle, yet suddenly I find myself watching home improvement shows and yearning for that dream beach house. I’ve never been a big online shopper, yet my shopping cart has seen more action in the last six months than in years. I’ve always cherished experiences over material items, but with travel and social activities off the table due to the pandemic, my mind is fooling me into thinking that online shopping and home upgrades are the answer to my desires.
What I truly crave are experiences: travel, meaningful conversations with friends, volunteering, and simply exploring the world. Just because I can’t engage in these activities right now doesn’t mean they aren’t what truly matter to me.
The pandemic has also transformed my parenting in ways I never expected. Previously a free-range (ish) parent, I now find myself tracking my teen’s movements and micromanaging their schoolwork. This isn’t the parent I envisioned becoming, and it feels deeply uncomfortable.
I’ve realized that I don’t want to be this anxious parent, nor do I want to be envious of others’ material possessions. I need to remind myself that just because I can’t do what I love right now, it doesn’t mean those passions have vanished.
Recently, I caught myself spiraling into thoughts and behaviors that contradict my true self. I decided enough was enough. I’ve started consciously redirecting my thoughts back to what truly matters to me, relying on facts, and maintaining my core values. I don’t want to emerge from this pandemic as someone I don’t recognize. If change must come, I want it to be on my own terms.
If you’re interested in further exploring this topic, check out our other blog post here. For those focusing on fertility, Make a Mom offers great insights on supplements to boost fertility, while Mount Sinai provides excellent resources for pregnancy and home insemination.
Search Queries:
- How to navigate pandemic-induced lifestyle changes
- Coping with anxiety during COVID-19
- Minimalist living in a materialistic world
- Parenting challenges during the pandemic
- Finding joy in experiences over possessions
Summary:
The pandemic has caused many to question their desires and identities, leading to confusion about what truly matters. The author reflects on personal changes in spending habits and parenting styles, recognizing the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures. They emphasize the need for intentionality and core values while navigating these challenging times.