COMING OUT OF #ISO AND I'VE BEEN DOING JUST FINE

When the coronavirus pandemic is over, it’s likely we’ll all personally know of someone lost to it. The deaths of over 300,000 people to the virus is a tragic and upsetting occurrence.

​It’s hard to look on the bright side when these statistics make the world seem so dark. However, in times like these we must recognise the unexpected positives of the pandemic.

​Go for a walk or bike ride: the air hasn’t been this clean for a while.

​Less people working and leaving the house means less cars on the road, and less pollution in the air. The Global Carbon Project estimates that we could see the largest drop in carbon dioxide emissions since World War Two.

Location data specialists HERE Technologies analysed Melbourne city’s congestion, reporting that between 5pm and 5.15pm on weekdays usually saw the worst congestion. However, this period in the last week of March had the same levels of congestion as at 9.30am on a Sunday.

Corn-ona virus: my #iso project was a veggie patch!

Those working from home have the opportunity to slow down. Rather than rushing through your morning to catch that train or beat the traffic, take the time to look outside and watch the world go by for a while. Consider your situation: a roof over your head, a job to keep you going, and a beautiful world at your doorstep.

For those out of work are undoubtedly stressed and concerned about finances. Regardless of whether you qualify for government assistance, you now have the time to reflect. You’re likely to be at home, where your family is might be. Strengthen your connection with your kids. Reconnect with your partner. Spoil your pet with your unrequited attention.

For everyone at home, working or not. You’ve got a rare opportunity, use it wisely. A common thought for those stuck at home wanting to be productive is why not jump into those jobs I’ve never had time for?

Though the Australian Bureau of Statistics reported a 73 percent decrease in demand for construction in March, hardware retail sales actually rose over 17 percent. Repaint your home, stain the back deck or revamp your garden. You’ll feel great after working hard and you’ll have a satisfying, rewarding outcome.

Don’t put undue pressure on yourself to be productive if you aren’t up to it; be reflective instead. Acknowledge that you may have taken your pre-coronavirus life for granted. When it is safe to do so, going shopping or seeing friends and family will be newly special.

It would be unfair and unrealistic to ask someone who has experienced severe impact or profound loss to relinquish their grief and look at the positives of such a situation.

However, for those only inadvertently affected by things such as the loss of social outings and most travel, we need recognise our luck and fortune. Complaining about restrictions won't benefit anyone: we're all in the same boat.

Though we may not continue to see the social and environmental benefits of a pandemic when it's all over, we do have the opportunity to make the most of it now.