The most trying moments and illuminating lessons.
Note
This is about a few personal, anecdotal experiences and should not substitute medical advice.
If you’re having health concerns of any kind, we urge you to speak to a healthcare professional.
But, what does starting a whole new life during a pandemic actually entail?
Design by Cristina Cianci
What prompted your decision to move during the pandemic?
“It was not my original plan to move during a pandemic.
Design by Cristina Cianci
I interviewed for a great job overseas in November 2019.
Towards the end of June, the COVID-19 numbers were trending down.
My company offered a move date for early August.
Design by Cristina Cianci
I figured it would be better to move than be stuck in limbo.”
Describe how moving made you feel emotionally, mentally, and physically.
I was even able to travel to Italy for a week with work.
Design by Cristina Cianci
“I felt (and still feel) incredibly unmotivated, exhausted, and drained.
I used TV as a way to mentally check out of the world.
This has been the worst state of my mental health in several years.”
Design by Cristina Cianci
What wellness and self-care practices have helped you cope?
Mentally and physically, tracking the amount of sleep and food I eat for the day has been invaluable.
My worst days have been when I did not get enough sleep and forgot to eat throughout the day.
I also confirm to set up regular weekly calls with my family and friends.
What has this experience taught you?
“Moving during this time has taught me how valuable it is to have a supportive community.
“I have also learned how resilient I can be.
This new chapter of my life has been a decade-long dream of mine.
I am so grateful for thing experience, even during a pandemic.”
Whats been the best advice youve received during this time?
“The best advice has been: ‘Allow yourself to rest.’
I received this message from a couple of friends and my therapist.
I often push myself and believe I need to work harder when Im stressed.
“I had already planned to move in 2019, and then the pandemic happened.
“I moved to L.A., but it’s not a completely new city.
I spent nine months here for graduate school some years ago.
However, since moving here, I feel free.
I also did a lot of self-reflection and let go of things that had been weighing me down.
That has helped me tremendously.”
“Moving during the pandemic confirmed nothing can stop me once I am determined to do something.
“Take risks while you’re free to.”
“I was working in sales during the early days of the pandemic but looking to change careers.
It seemed like a wonderful opportunity for a fresh start, and I took it!”
“It has been an equally challenging and exciting experience for me.
Physically, it has been great for me because Boston has a cool bike-share system and bike-friendly roads.
This move taught me I can take risks and that I am even more resilient than I thought.
The one reassuring thing is that the best is yet to come.”
A dear friend told me to get a therapist, which was great advice.
“I have dreams that I want to accomplish.
I also pray and listen to gospel music daily.
Lastly, I just talk to god and relax.
Musicals also play a part in my coping mechanisms.”
This new chapter is all about digging deeper into who I am and pursuing my career full force.
It’s time for me to focus more on bettering myself.”
