Lockdown lifted and the shifting personal priorities.

Just as I got into the swing of it. Lockdown ended.

Priorities have altered from a complete focus on getting a training contract to having now a social life (in person that is). Even though I thoroughly enjoyed my zoom calls, I cannot wait till they are a part of our social past. I know we need to be able to do both. This is something I pride myself on. If you can’t do both, you are not doing it right.

Lockdown relaxation felt like I had been set free. Released from jail. All I want to do is socialise and not be stuck in my house which I have been restricted to for months. Unlike some people, I never had the fear of going outside, which was a reasonable response to the pandemic. I was wishing for excitement and variation in my life. Although I have now found myself in a new sort of pattern. Tennis, rounders are the constants of my park meet ups. The occasional wine and cheese night to add needed variation. Where is the time for work? My career? It is still my ultimate goal.

I was hit with the realisation that I may had signed up to a few too many things whilst I was in lockdown. How will I balance calls, scheduling, organisation around people who are free most of the day? Whilst I enjoy all the work I have signed up to and I thoroughly enjoy helping other and working with people, which is the core of everything I do, I still get hit with “FOMO” or the fear of missing out when my friends are doing stuff and I can’t.

The question is, “How do I find a balance?” This is what I battle every day. The feeling of “productivity” (although as we discussed before this should not be a measure of success- but we can’t be perfect, so I still struggle with this) and spending time with my friends. Both which create a sense of happiness, albeit different happiness.

I don’t yet have an answer, but I hope this helps fellow students out there. You are not alone. The transition isn’t going to be easy. You have to find time for you. A social life is so important, not only for your mental health but because it teaches you so many things: communication, compatibility and organisation. Your career aspirations should never come as a detriment to the other things you love. You can do both. I will do both.