Navigating Big (and Little) Life Changes in the Midst of a Global Pandemic

The coronavirus pandemic has disrupted life for everyone. Adapting your plans to a global
pandemic isn’t easy, but in many cases, it’s still doable. Here how you can handle six different
life changes during the pandemic.

Buying a House
Some things can’t wait even during a pandemic — having a baby, starting a new job, and
moving house, to name a few. While optional upsizes and downsizes can be put off, some
homeowners have no choice but to move. Luckily, the real estate industry has wasted no time
adapting to the coronavirus pandemic. With 3D photography, virtual walk-throughs, and tours
via video chat, buyers can find a home without putting themselves or sellers at risk. Buyers may,
however, want to include contingencies in their offer in case the virus becomes an issue.

Having a Baby
Speaking of having a baby: This is one big change you can’t reschedule no matter what.
There’s no need to panic if you’re expecting a baby during the COVID-19 pandemic. The risk of
an ill mother transmitting the virus in utero or during childbirth appears to be low, and hospitals
are taking precautions to minimize transmission in maternity wards such as limiting visitors.
Women with low-risk pregnancies also have birthing centers as a hospital alternative.

Starting a Job
Whether you accepted a job offer before stay-at-home orders were issued or got hired by an
essential business, the coronavirus pandemic has made it a strange time for workplace
onboarding. Your workplace may still be shut down due to the crisis, temporarily operating
remotely, or taking new precautions to prevent coronavirus transmission. If you’re being asked
to work remotely, find out what technology you need to excel at your new job. If you’re reporting
to a workplace, know how to keep yourself safe at work. And if that new job is on hold, learn
how to apply for unemployment benefits to help make ends meet until your first paycheck
comes in.

Adopting a Pet
Not all changes are big and scary! People are also making little changes to brighten their lives
during the coronavirus pandemic, like adopting pets. While adopting a pet isn’t a decision to
take lightly, this is a good time to take the leap if you’ve been considering pet ownership for a
while. The extra time at home gives new pet owners plenty of time to train and bond with their
new pets.

Spending More Time at Home
We’ve all been spending a lot of time at home this year. If your family is anxious, arguing a lot,
or complaining excessively, there are steps you can take to make your home a more positive
environment. This starts with eliminating clutter by putting things away or tossing items you no
longer use. Next, give your home a top-to-bottom cleaning. Finally, open up some windows and
let in as much natural light as possible.
You can also find some fun family activities to participate in whether that’s starting a family
dance party, practicing yoga together, or holding a backyard scavenger hunt.

Starting a Victory Garden
Some families have turned to their backyards to solve the challenges brought on by the
pandemic. Rather than frequenting grocery stores for their fresh vegetables, people have
revived the tradition of victory gardening. It doesn’t take much to get a garden growing if you
have a sunny patch in your backyard.

Navigating life changes is challenging enough without a pandemic thrown into the mix, but life
stops for no crisis. So, when one shows up, take the reins instead of backing down. With a can-
do attitude and the right tools, you can keep life moving forward no matter what.