‘Change the World!’
‘Become Leaders of Tomorrow!’
‘Get a degree and be relevant!’
Many of us have decided to push through with our education to achieve some of these goals. I am currently a fourth-year student of Optometry at the University of Benin, and if there’s anything I’ve learned, it’s that the average Nigerian student is a survivor.
Handling several hours of lectures every day, meeting assignment deadlines, striking a balance between activities, and just trying to overcome the emotional hurdles school throws at us—we deserve some real ‘accolades.’
Just like the rest of the world, we, too, unsure of what to expect, had to put our routines on hold, hoping for the best. Before our very eyes, days turned into weeks, and weeks into months.
I didn’t know what was in store either. Each day, there was a constant struggle in my head between sitting on the couch all day watching TV and actually doing something meaningful with my time. One was a lot easier to do, while the other would push me closer to my dreams. I’ll let you decide which one I chose at the end of this article.
As we slowly return to our normal lives, here are some important lessons the pandemic taught me. The lockdown became a time for self-awareness and, if you like, rejuvenation. I’ve compressed these lessons into four key points. Follow me on this ride, and I hope you find the inspiration you need too.
1. Value Time Spent with Family and Friends
If there’s anything this pandemic has proven, it’s that life is short and memories are golden. Sometimes, we get too busy to create memories with the very people who will eventually become our support when the unknown happens.
I got to spend quality time with my family and realized how much I had missed out on while I was away. From seeing my mom smile to discussing pressing life issues with my dad, these memories will remain evergreen.
You don’t need to clear out your savings or do the impossible to make memories. I’ve learned that simply letting someone know they’re on your mind when you go to bed and wake up can be truly beautiful. Complimenting a great meal, celebrating achievements, or listening when they pour out their struggles—just being available means so much. These basic things are often more appreciated than a luxury trip to Hawaii. (Don’t get me wrong; I’m a huge fan of getaway trips!)
2. Creativity and Innovation Are Lifesavers
One big lesson the pandemic taught me is the power of creativity and innovation.
So, what’s creativity? It’s having workable ideas that make life a whole lot easier. Innovation? Tweaking existing ideas to make them function even better.
When it became impossible to have social gatherings, go to work, or simply move around, creativity and innovation ensured that life didn’t come to a complete halt.
A lot of organizations moved their activities online and discovered that much could actually be done from the comfort of our homes. This era has shown us how useful technology is today and how important it is to think outside the box when faced with uncertainty. We may not know what the future holds, but creative thinkers never get stranded.
3. Self-Development Is Important
While school plays a huge role in making your dreams a reality, a significant amount of responsibility rests on your shoulders. You could sit around waiting for things to be done for you and feel entitled, or you could stand up and get things done yourself.
We have many assets at our disposal—mobile phones, social media, websites, newsletters, online training platforms, books, and so much more. They are easier to access now than ever.
During the lockdown, I took online self-development courses and broadened my horizon. The value I’ve gained will last a lifetime. We all get degrees upon completing our school programs, but being employable, working with a team, being productive, and having the right work ethics come from self-development.
If you live in this part of the world, you know the labor market isn’t smiling. So, what extra value do you have to offer?
4. Health Is Wealth
Most of the time, we take our health for granted. Good hygiene should be taken seriously. Many health conditions result from poor healthcare practices, and the coronavirus definitely proved that to us.
It’s essential to take care of our health and ensure our environment is safe for everyone. Eat right, drink clean water, wash your hands, dispose of waste properly, and rest when needed. Regularly see a doctor and avoid self-medication. (Follow the health tips on Elowell Max and be happy.)
We’ve all had our experiences and dealt with many challenges. It’s easy to dwell on the limitations the pandemic brought, but if you look closely, there’s something to learn.
So, what have you learned?
