I recently found myself spending hours browsing homes on real estate websites, and not just nearby—thousands of miles away from where I live. For some, that might not seem strange, but the kicker is I’m not even planning to move, nor do I desire a larger home.
In the past ten months, I’ve noticed a shift in my behavior. I find myself worrying about things I previously brushed off. I get frustrated over trivial matters, get overexcited about fleeting trends, and feel envious of things I never wanted in the first place. Who have I become?
This is what I call “pandemic deception.” It tricks us into believing we crave things we don’t genuinely want, simply because they seem significant in this bizarre pandemic reality. If we’re not cautious, it can lead us to become people we don’t recognize or aspire to be.
Here’s the truth: I’m not a fan of “stuff.” In fact, the thought of a large home overwhelms me. An abundance of clothes and gadgets gives me anxiety. I lean towards a minimalist lifestyle.
Yet, over the last year, I’ve found myself glued to home improvement shows, yearning for that perfect beachside property. I’ve ordered more clothes and shoes online recently than I have over the last few years combined. I usually prefer to invest in experiences like travel, but with those options off the table, my mind has tricked me into thinking that shopping for home décor and clothing is what I need.
When I reflect on what truly matters to me, it’s not about acquiring new items. I long to travel, spend quality time with friends, volunteer, attend church, and explore the world. Just because I can’t engage in those activities right now doesn’t mean they’re any less important.
Pandemic deception has also transformed my approach to parenting. I used to be a relatively relaxed parent, allowing my kids freedom to roam. But over the past year, I’ve become overly cautious. I’ve found myself tracking my teen’s movements to ensure he’s following safety protocols, and I’ve become more involved in their academic lives than I ever intended.
This is not the parent I want to be. I don’t want to obsess over others’ possessions or constantly monitor my children. Yet, the pandemic has led me to believe that these things matter, creating anxiety about their safety and wellbeing.
Recently, I recognized this disconnect and decided to take control. I’ve been actively working to catch myself when I spiral into these irrational behaviors. By grounding myself in facts and focusing on my core values, I remind myself of the person I aspire to be once this all ends. I refuse to emerge from this pandemic as someone I don’t recognize. If change is inevitable, I want it to be on my own terms.
For more insights on navigating these challenging times, check out this other blog post. If you’re exploring options for home insemination, be sure to visit Cryobaby for expert advice. Additionally, ACOG offers valuable resources for those interested in pregnancy and home insemination.
Search Queries:
- How has the pandemic changed parenting styles?
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- How to navigate feelings of envy during the pandemic.
Summary:
The pandemic has led to unexpected changes in behavior and priorities for many, including a shift towards materialism and heightened concern over parenting. As individuals grapple with these changes, it’s essential to reconnect with core values and focus on what truly matters, such as experiences and relationships, rather than succumbing to pandemic-induced desires.
Keyphrase: pandemic deception
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