With a Covid-19 vaccine slowly rolling out across the globe, we can start to see how we’ll turn the corner on this dreary pandemic. Living through this period has been, in turn, shocking, scary, boring, sad, and fascinating. But, as I look forward to a time when I’m not compelled to cross the street when someone is approaching to pass me on the sidewalk, there are some things I hope don’t change post-pandemic.
#1 Not shaking hands
A while back, I asked my social media followers whether the business handshake would return once we’re past the pandemic. I thought folks would lament the absence of this cultural norm, but to my surprise, many hoped that clasping hands with someone to seal a deal or upon first meeting would die with the virus.
I’ve never liked shaking hands–especially in a large group when multiple sets of hands are involved. Did it take the novel coronavirus for people to realize what a distasteful germ-spreading practice it is?
The fist-bump spreads up to 90% fewer germs than the handshake. I’d be happy to take it a step further and just bow the way the Japanese do.
#2 Sanitized plane cabins
Perhaps I’m outing myself as a germaphobe, but I’ve also never been satisfied with the level of cleanliness on flights. I’ve found too many soiled tissues and discarded candy wrappers in my seat flap to believe cleaners get enough time to do a thorough job. At the same time, I have also felt self-conscious about wiping down my armrests and tray table. Not any more. I anticipate whipping out the Lysol wipes with abandon the first time I fly again. I also take some comfort (perhaps misguided) that the monetary risks that come with a flight superspreader event mean that the restroom and other hard surfaces will be properly sanitized between flights.
#3 Local loyalty
Nothing beats soaking up the local vibes on a restaurant patio.
I bet we’ve all come to realize that our local restaurants and shops (and the people who work at them) are what make our neighbourhoods and cities unique and exciting. The threat of losing them (or actually losing them in many sad cases) has spurred many of us to support local businesses over big box brands and chains. Let’s hope these new habits remain whether we’re at home or travelling.
#4 Appreciating nature
Did you ever think you’d look forward to going on a hike as much as a night out on the town with friends? Covid restrictions have had us clambering to enjoy the outdoors regardless of the weather. It’s made us realize the value of our public parks and trails and the soothing effects of nature on a pandemic-rattled soul.
One of our new favourite Manitoba hiking spots.
We have visited many new-to-us nature spots near our home, and I hope we don’t abandon visiting our favourite discoveries once we start travelling again. I hope the added interest in natural places also means that we’ll invest in and protect them.
#5 Working remotely
I was on the remote work bandwagon long before Covid hit, but there was a time I thought it was impossible to tag along on Steve’s business travel while maintaining my public relations practice. When it became clear that if I didn’t give it a go, Steve and I would hardly see each other, I gave it a try and realized how easy it is.
Whether working from another city or just working from home away from the office, people are realizing the quality of life boost remote work offers. No mind-numbing, climate-destroying commutes, easier to juggle family responsibilities, more time to cook healthy meals — there are so many tremendous benefits. I hope that employers continue to allow remote working to some degree even once it’s not mandated.
Over to you. What do you hope remains post-pandemic?
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