Recently, I found myself spending hours browsing homes on Zillow. But here’s the twist: they were located thousands of miles away, and I have no plans to move, nor do I even want a larger house.
Over the past year, I’ve noticed a shift in my mindset. I’m fixating on aspects of life that previously held no significance for me, worrying about minor risks, feeling irrationally angry over trivial matters, and becoming envious of things I don’t even desire. What is wrong with me?
The answer: pandemic deception. It’s as if we’re being tricked into believing we yearn for things that, in reality, don’t matter to us—simply because they seem valuable in this chaotic pandemic life. If we aren’t cautious, we might start to associate with identities that don’t truly reflect who we are.
For instance, I’m not a fan of “stuff.” In fact, the thought of a large home can be overwhelming. I thrive in a minimalist environment. Yet, during the past year, I’ve become addicted to HGTV, daydreaming about a beachside 4-bedroom, 3-bath house. I’ve ordered more shoes and clothes online than I have in the last several years. I generally prefer investing in experiences, but with travel and dining out off the table due to the pandemic, my mind has convinced me that shopping and home decor are now my priorities.
When I genuinely reflect on my desires, I realize I want to travel, engage in meaningful conversations with friends, volunteer, and explore the world. I must remind myself that just because these activities are currently unavailable doesn’t mean they won’t be possible again in the future.
The pandemic has also reshaped my parenting style. I used to be a free-range parent, allowing my kids the freedom to explore without constantly monitoring their whereabouts. This year, however, I’ve found myself tracking my teenage son’s bike rides and scrutinizing their homework and grades. Who am I becoming?!
This isn’t the parent or person I aspire to be. I don’t want to feel envious of others’ possessions. Yet, the pandemic has distorted my values, making me overly cautious and anxious about my family’s safety.
Recently, I caught myself spiraling into a cycle of thoughts and behaviors that contradict my true self. I decided it was time to take control. I’ve begun consciously redirecting my thoughts, relying on facts and science, and reminding myself of my core values. Who do I want to become when this is over? I don’t want to emerge as a helicopter parent obsessed with material possessions.
I long for outdoor adventures, travel, and a generous lifestyle. I want to trust my children and manage my anxiety. The past year has been incredibly challenging. Decision fatigue is real, and the burnout is palpable. Now, with pandemic deception added to the mix, the thought of being intentional feels overwhelming. However, it’s this very act of mindfulness that keeps me grounded and prevents me from spiraling into despair.
If the pandemic is going to change me—and it certainly will—I want that transformation to align with my true self.
For more insights, check out this blog post that dives deeper into navigating life’s challenges. If you’re interested in self-insemination options, this resource provides valuable information. Additionally, this link offers an excellent overview of pregnancy and home insemination.
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Summary:
The pandemic has led to unexpected shifts in behavior and values, prompting many to question their desires and identities. As we navigate these changes, it’s crucial to reflect on our true selves and resist the allure of materialism that the pandemic might promote. Mindfulness and intentionality can help us maintain our core values and emerge from this challenging period authentically.
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