We've mentioned how the pandemic brought upon many changes to our daily habits and life arrangements. We've also mentioned about 5 things that will change forever in the face of the pandemic, staying well after everything is over. However, some things just never change, and I think we could safely assume these things will go back to the "old normal" if and when we see the end of Covid-19.
1. Traffic
While most people were confined to their houses even for work, there are some who still had to travel to their workplaces daily. For these "lucky" few, there is at least one thing going for them - the traffic, or lack thereof. But, the lack of traffic is not a result of lesser cars being bought and more of just these cars staying at home. When the pandemic is over, expect to participate in the same traffic jam (or even worse) to and from work again.
2. Education
Sure, schools and universities continue to conduct classes as the Movement Control Orders (MCOs) are in place. Teachers and professors continue to impart knowledge using video conferencing software originally meant for work meetings.
Even so, the lack of student-teacher interaction you get in a physical class is making it tough even for the best students and teachers to collaborate. This is why we think that education will go back into schools and universities as soon as it is safe.
3. Politics
Ok, I don't mean to take a cheap shot, but we have seen what can only be described as lacklustre in the efforts of those in power to help those in need throughout this pandemic. Although there are a few exceptions, many politicians have done nothing more than posting a picture of them having instant noodles in "support" of the people. If the political situation in the country will not change for the better even in the midst of a global pandemic, I'm not sure it ever will.
4. Travel
No matter how advance technology gets, how good virtual reality (VR) can be, or how much often Google Earth updates, nothing beats actual travelling. Oh, how we've missed the long waits at the airport and using our passport, or the cool breeze in our face and our feet in the sand. Many people are dying to get out of their homes, states, and countries and we are bound to see a huge spike in travel demand (hopefully soon).
5. Sports
As is the case for travel, no technology can replace physical activities when it comes to sports. Yes, a Nintendo Switch and a Ring Fit or an app that helps you exercise with just a smartphone might get you to burn some calories, but the lack of social interactions and competitions make it less fun. After all this, I'm sure we'll have second thoughts when finding excuses to avoid shooting hoops with our friends.
So, what else do you think will go back to the "old normal" after the pandemic? Do you think we'll ever get to go back? We'll just have to wait and see.