Chapter 1: The Impact of Lockdown on Our Lives

The COVID-19 pandemic was a devastating event, bringing with it immense suffering, loss of life, increased domestic violence, and the disintegration of numerous families. However, amid this turmoil, there were also unexpected silver linings.

"Facing the pandemic, is not what happened that matters, it is how we respond."

― Napz Cherub Pellazo

While certain events are beyond our control, our reactions to them are entirely up to us. The pandemic crept into our lives like a distant ship approaching from afar, with the earliest signs appearing as news from China. We found ourselves in Thailand, a nation that had managed to evade the worst of the crisis for an extended period. The chaos around us felt relentless, and for a long time, it seemed like the ship would never reach its destination—until it finally did.

My first vivid memory of the outbreak's impact was when strangers aggressively urged me to wear a mask during my jogs in the neighborhood. Around this time, there was a growing narrative in Thailand blaming "dirty foreigners" for the outbreak, marking the onset of an uncomfortable chapter in our lives. We experienced isolation as people would exit elevators to avoid us, and many crossed the street to steer clear of our family. Never had we felt more like outsiders in a country celebrated for its hospitality.

Then came the lockdown. For six months, we juggled online learning for our two young children, with both parents confined at home, trying to teach and maintain our sanity. During this period, we also faced the loss of my grandfather, whom I hadn't seen for two years due to travel bans. All these challenges were beyond our control.

"Instead of shutting ourselves off in fear, becoming victims — part of the problem — we became a solution."

― Cleo Coyle, Billionaire Blend

Despite the death, anguish, and relentless anxiety about illness—especially with our daughter suffering from asthma—I can't recall a time when I experienced more personal growth. What contributed to this transformation?

Section 1.1: Embracing Fitness Through Peloton

Although I had to settle for a more affordable stationary bike in a cramped laundry room, the hours spent with Peloton instructors revealed much about myself. Overcoming tough workouts and connecting with instructors worldwide created a sense of belonging and community. The motivating phrases I absorbed became essential mantras that continue to guide me through challenging times.

"I am, I can, I will, I do." — Christine D'Ercole

"Great things rarely come from sitting in comfort zones." — Ben Alldis

Section 1.2: The Power of Coaching

During lockdown, I began working with a professional coach who acted as both a mentor and a guide. This experience reshaped my self-perception. We commenced with various personality and leadership assessments to better understand my strengths, followed by discussions about challenges at work, culminating in 360-degree feedback from colleagues. This process provided me with concrete evidence of my capabilities and strategies for addressing my weaknesses, significantly benefiting me during and after the pandemic.

Section 1.3: Learning Alongside My Children

Being in lockdown compelled me to engage in online learning alongside my children. Our eldest was just starting her Reception year, diving into reading and writing. I learned quite a bit about phonics and decoding, but the most rewarding aspect was witnessing my children's positive development. With support from their parents and teachers, they began to cultivate both a growth mindset and resilience.

"A fixed mindset about ability leads to pessimistic explanations of adversity, and that, in turn, leads to both giving up on challenges and avoiding them in the first place. In contrast, a growth mindset leads to optimistic ways of explaining adversity, and that, in turn, leads to perseverance and seeking out new challenges that will ultimately make you even stronger."

― Angela Duckworth, Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance

Instead of viewing themselves as limited by "I can't," they began to recognize the power of their efforts and the significance of persistence. Observing this journey firsthand was a profound experience, one I might have only watched from a distance without the pandemic.

Section 1.4: Finding Hope Amidst Challenges

The pandemic years provided me with substantial personal growth, and I am also thankful for the renewed hope it instilled in me for the future. Just as the mental fog began to lift with hard work, the physical fog cleared as we stayed home and reduced emissions.

I gained invaluable insights through the challenges presented by COVID-19; let us hope we all do the same and strive to find ways to maintain clarity moving forward.

"In Covid Pandemic, I have learned a new language to show compassion to the pandemic citizens of lost world."

― Qamar Rafiq