Glamour (South Africa)

Lessons from lockdown

Not only has the Coronaviru­s pandemic disrupted the world’s health and its economy; but it’s also changed the way we interact with the world and our fellow human beings. Here, the Glamour team share their experience­s.

- Kirsten King Freelance Art Director Words / THOBEKA PHANYEKO Group Fashion Director

nontando Mposo

Editor-in-chief

What lessons did you learn from the pandemic?

Life’s fragile and unpredicta­ble.

How did your general outlook on life change?

It’s reminded me to spend more time with the people who matter to me and to also to spend time with my thoughts.

Who were you on lockdown with, and how would you describe the experience?

My partner, son and nanny. The experience was fun, and it helped cushion the anxiety that was hanging over us.

How did you stay sane?

We cooked comfort food we usually don’t have time to make. We also listened to music, danced and laughed.

What are some of the things you took for granted before the pandemic?

Breathing, and my daily interactio­ns with strangers.

What lessons did you learn from the pandemic?

We’re progressiv­e, adaptable and resourcefu­l as a society.

How did your general outlook on life change?

I want to live more passionate­ly and delve deeper into things that resonate with me.

Who were you on lockdown with, and how would you describe the experience?

Being with my family was (strangely) bearable. We found ways of keeping busy separately, and got together at dinnertime to watch a comedy series or the news.

What’s your biggest takeaway from the experience?

Despite all the technologi­cal advances we’ve made, we weren’t ready for this virus. It crippled us – some of us irreparabl­y. But it gave the earth a chance to breathe again, which reminded us to look after it.

Jason Basson

What lessons did you learn from the pandemic?

To take what you hear with a pinch of salt. If you believe the conspiracy theories, one-per cent of the ruling class is hell-bent on wiping out the world’s population.

How did your general outlook on life change?

I focussed on the things I’d let go: making clothing and art, cooking, and dancing in my underpants. I planned to spend more time in nature and less time worrying about work.

Who were you on lockdown with, and how would you describe the experience?

I cooked; my partner cleaned. We both love music, playing cards, talking shit and laughing a lot. I count my lucky stars that we have a balcony and some space to move around. Space and the ability to isolate are both luxuries.

What did you learn to live without?

Is it wrong to say I learnt to live without my office space? I actually found myself and my team to be more productive and more responsive to working from home.

Mira Leibowitz

What lessons did you learn from the pandemic?

1. We’re all wildly connected, on every level. 2. Life can change drasticall­y and quickly. 3. Great leadership’s crucial.

How has your general outlook on life changed?

I’m concerned about those who’re ill, less fortunate, elderly or working on the frontline. I’m nervous about our mental health and an economy that’s sinking faster than ever before. I’m thankful for my current situation, and I’m aware of my privilege, so I’ll always help those in need.

How did you stay sane?

I developed a healthy routine – exercise kept me sane. I avoided monotony by switching off from work and doing something different at the weekend, so the days didn’t blend into each other.

What are some of the things you took for granted before the pandemic?

Health, whether mental or physical, is often overlooked until it’s compromise­d. It’s important to acknowledg­e its fragility, be grateful if you’re well, and do everything in your power to be as healthy as you can be.

Lesley Mathys

Group managing and syndicatio­n Editor

How has your general outlook on life changed?

I’m more aware of the strain on our health services and also that we must value essential-service employees.

Think about the risks refuse-removal staff took, as an example. Another thing the pandemic highlighte­d is the need for, or lack thereof, general hygiene. I like the idea of non-contact greeting and social distancing. I’d feel a lot more comfortabl­e going outside if it was something we’d keep doing once all this is over.

Who were you on lockdown with, and how would you describe the experience?

I live with my sister Julie, who I’m close to. Her company made isolation a lot easier, but I missed my family and friends, especially my nieces and nephews.

Buntu ngcuka

What lessons did you learn from the pandemic?

1. I enjoy interactin­g with people, despite my introversi­on and anxiety.

2. South Africa’s socioecono­mic inequality and the ignorance that can come with privilege are bigger problems than we thought.

3. You can never have enough wine.

How did your general outlook on life change?

Life’s for the living, especially if you have the health and time, as opposed to constantly planning and waiting for the right moment to arrive.

Who were you on lockdown with, and how would you describe the experience? If you were alone, how did you occupy your time?

I was by myself, in my flat. I was working most of the time, but I also took regular (extended) breaks. I cleaned, cooked, read, wrote, and watched series and documentar­ies.

How did you stay sane?

My friends and I were in constant contact in our Whatsapp group. I also spoke to my therapist, and I had music playing in the background all day long.

What did you learn to live without?

Beer and takeaways. Although I will overindulg­e when this is all over. Also, my tendency to self-impose guilt.

What are some of the things you took for granted before the pandemic?

1. The freedom to walk around in the sun (or rain). 2. Eavesdropp­ing and people-watching.

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