The pandemic continues to present challenges to all of us. Fortunately, we’ve learned a lot about the virus, and the world has begun to acclimate to the way things are, and we’ll continue to do so in the coming months. But this doesn’t mean the uncertainty that accompanies a global crisis is without challenges. While they’re myriad, true to the human spirit, we’re adapting. Consider these points from GSD Venture Studios.
Joblessness
One of the most significant issues has been widespread job loss. As many businesses shut down, positions were cut and jobs slashed. For many people, a layoff or furlough forced them to think outside the box job-wise, and translating skills and abilities for new job opportunities has become crucial. For others, LendingClub notes that finding new employment feels like an insurmountable task.
But connecting the dots doesn't have to be a lost cause; you can find a professional career counselor who can help you get back on track – possibly giving you an idea of how to completely change your career trajectory.
One idea is to find remote work as a freelancer. There are many part- and full-time job opportunities that you can do from home, including writing, customer service, web design, and being a virtual assistant. When you work from home, you’ll want to designate a space so that you can avoid distractions. Also, it’s a good idea to find a suitable desk, ergonomic office chair, and reliable desktop computer so you can work effectively.
Another idea is to take this time to enhance your career prospects. With online learning programs, you’ll be able to gain expertise through at-home study. For example, if you’re considering starting your own business, you can earn an online business degree and develop skills in marketing, human resource management, and accounting.
Mental health
Mental health issues are arguably one of the most worrisome side effects of living through a pandemic. And it’s easy to see why. Self-isolation, uncertainty, and bad news every time you turn on the television can take a toll.
Coupled with suddenly being forced to wear a mask in public, which many have frowned upon, and being in close quarters with your family 100 percent of the time, it’s no wonder mental health has suddenly become a front-and-center topic of conversation. To combat this, Net Health points out that many have turned to telehealth therapeutic services to help them work through their problems without potentially exposing themselves to the virus. If you’ve been uncertain about counseling, remember that now more than ever this is a highly valuable resource.
Beauty and dating
Something many people didn’t see coming was having our barbershops and beauty salons shut down. This made it exponentially more difficult to maintain our style routines, and, hilariously, many folks started cutting their own hair. If you’ve found yourself thinking about doing the same, spend the money on quality supplies, such as a mirror or clippers. You’ll be glad to have these at your disposal if you’re a singleton who has turned to online dating. With social distancing measures still in place, you’ll want to look your best when you hop on Bumble or Badoo looking for love.
Pets and produce
While many changes have certainly been a challenge, others have been more of an adventure. Some of us are learning to grow our own food and an even greater number have adopted pets. Even if you have yet to hop on the self-sufficiency train, you still have time to grow an indoor garden. (Bonus points for turning this into a fun activity you can do with the entire family!)
If you’ve adopted a new pet, however, make sure to fence your patch of produce off; otherwise, your new pup may feel free to frolic. If pet ownership has been on your mind, one important consideration is to make sure you can give them the attention they need. While this might not be a problem now, when schools and businesses reopen full-time, your pet may find himself lonely, and that’s no life for an animal.
With the pandemic, change was inevitable. And while some things are beyond our control, we can adapt to others. From cutting your own hair to impressing your online date to changing jobs, the above are just a few ways that we’ve risen to the occasion. It will be interesting in the next few months to see how else the world adapts.
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GSD Venture Studios travels the world inviting resilient teams to establish partnerships that ensure organizations grow the right way, without games or gimmicks. Unlike traditional investors, we take senior operational roles in these companies, capitalizing on our trusted reputation, experiences and network to drive explosive growth. Reach out today to find out more!