Say it again: Some lessons learned during the pandemic are worth repeating

COVID-19 prompted many workers to look inward and inspired them to do things differently. Whether that included their approach to work, their families or their careers in general, many of us found ways to grow during these very difficult times. Here’s a look back at some wonderful selfand societal-taught lessons during 2020.

On the emotional impact of working during a pandemic

“The global impact of COVID-19 has resulted in a surge of stress, anxiety, depression, anger, irritability, fear and so much more. The impact on human emotion and behavior has been quite dramatic. The psychological aftermath of COVID-19 has the potential to continue for years to come, thus affecting our workforce in the United States and worldwide. The fallout because of the COVID-19 pandemic will undoubtedly have a great impact on global mental health.”

— Dr. Jodi J. De Luca, Ph.D., licensed clinical psychologist, Coal Creek, Colorado

On discovering new talents

“I learned I’m a good cook. I started making my own lunch every day and while I started off strong— as in healthy— I eventually ended up in a pattern where I’d only make a grilled-cheese sandwich. But instead of denying it, I embraced it. I can now cook 14 varieties of the gooey treat. With a pickle and some chips, it’s the perfect lunch. I make a grilled cheese with pineapple and red jalapeno peppers that would rock your world.”

-Tracy Anderson, guitarist, Los Angeles

On the importance of workday flexibility

“It’s not the time for a rigid approach to work. The best outcomes will be because of flexibility, support and people working together to make the best out of the current circumstances.”

— Dr. Jaclyn Jensen, workplace expert and an associate professor in the College of Business at DePaul University.

On reaffirming what matters most

“I have enjoyed the trial of learning to reinvent ways to do what I have always done. It has made me analyze what is important and what I can throw away as really not necessary. I really do miss creativity and overall creation of a product in my line of work. Students really do rely on the product to help them enjoy themselves.”

— David S Duffy, band director, Buda, Texas

On gearing up when going out

“I have to go into the office two days a week and I protect myself at all costs, even if I look stupid to other people. I see people on the train without a mask. I’m surprised by it every time. I’d wrap myself in bubble wrap if I could and some people act like nothing’s happened.”

— Shannon Ellen, administrative assistant, Chicago

On changing one’s approach to work during the pandemic

“You have to adjust how you do your job, even if it’s something small. People are very accepting of us into their homes because we’re masked and we keep our distance but they don’t stand in the background watching what we do and having a conversation with us. And I’m a talker, so that’s been different.”

— Nick Maroulis, owner, Windy City Appliance Repair

On getting too comfortable with working alone

“Workers who prefer doing projects on their own often find they run into brick walls when they go to show management their work. You do so much but you do it in a vacuum. You’re not always sure what other people want because you don’t bother to talk to them, so you forge ahead and put out what you think is the best possible proposal or solution.”

— Lauren Albert, career consultant, Chicago

— Marco Buscaglia, Careers