A Note from Connie

With the start of a new year, I wanted to write an article about new beginnings and new ideas. One topic that immediately came to mind was how COVID changed our lives and our world. Those changes were both positive and negative. 

Let’s begin with the difficult realities. The greatest tragedy of the pandemic was the loss of so many lives—many of whom died alone. Healthcare workers endured countless long, high-risk shifts under extraordinary pressure. Some individuals who contracted COVID continue to suffer from long-term health complications. The introduction of COVID vaccines also created challenging situations, as some people were forced to choose between accepting the vaccine or losing their jobs. 

In addition, the global supply chain was severely disrupted. Essential items were backordered or unavailable altogether, from disinfectant wipes and toilet paper to infant formula. Many of us had to become creative and rely on friends, family, and community networks to obtain necessary supplies. 

Despite these hardships, there were also positive outcomes. Many of us became more mindful of hand hygiene. For example, I now carry hand sanitizer in my car and use it every time I re-enter, and I regularly sanitize my steering wheel. Wearing masks also became normalized. Today, people feel comfortable choosing to wear a mask in public for added protection, and most of us think nothing of it. 

For this article, however, I especially wanted to highlight one of the most meaningful positive changes: the recognition by businesses and employers that work/life balance truly matters-it does not just have to be a catch phrase. Many employers were forced to allow employees to work from home, and in many cases, they discovered that the arrangement was effective. 

This shift brought renewed attention to work-life balance—a concept many had heard of, but few truly experienced. Employers began to recognize that employees have responsibilities beyond their jobs, including caring for children, aging parents, and managing household needs. Allowing employees the flexibility to address these responsibilities during traditional work hours often resulted in greater focus and productivity. 

This new way of thinking includes allowing employees to make up missed hours outside of standard schedules, removing guilt around attending family appointments or events, and recognizing that not everything is urgent. Companies also realized some financial benefits, such as reduced costs for office space, utilities, maintenance, and insurance. 

These changes extended beyond the workplace. The medical field adapted quickly, with virtual appointments becoming common and often encouraged. Reliable internet access became essential—not only for healthcare, but also for education and other services—so much so that connectivity began to be viewed as a basic need alongside housing, food, water, and heat. 

It is important to acknowledge that virtual schooling was not the best learning environment for all students or families. Still, the rapid adaptation demonstrated what is possible when flexibility becomes a priority. 

In summary, while the pandemic brought immense loss and hardship, it also prompted a long-overdue pause in our fast-paced, “everything-can’t-wait” culture. The corporate world has taken at least a small step toward valuing both work and family. Every household and workplace operates differently, but this shift in mindset may be a step in the right direction. 

Connie Holt 
Business and Clinical Director 
FFA-NC