We love hearing and sharing your stories. We want to find out how people are adapting to their ‘new normal’, what changes they’re making and what they’re learning. Each week, we share a story with you, from people in different jobs (or not in jobs for some), in different places, with different experiences. If you’re interested in sharing your story, we’d love to hear how the ‘new normal’ is for you.
What’s your name and what do you do?
Abi France, psychology student & intern at People Lab
How did you start your day today?
I woke up at around 7.30, put my morning Spotify playlist on and made myself a coffee. I spent some time cuddling my dog, Willow, and then made some scrambled eggs on toast. After having a shower, I set myself up for another day in my internship.
What was a typical day like for you pre Covid-19?
As a full-time student I was pretty busy. I usually had a couple of lectures first thing and then I’d make some lunch before heading to library for a few hours. Here I’d be getting on with my essays while drinking plenty of coffee! After this, I’d hop on the train into Brighton and work a 7/8-hour shift in a local restaurant. If I wasn’t completely knackered by this point, I’d meet my friends in a bar to finish the day.
And what is a typical day like now?
My morning usually starts with a workout first thing – this was difficult to make a habit of but it’s definitely what’s kept me sane throughout lockdown! With it being my summer break now, I’ve been spending plenty of time indulging in some good books that I just haven’t had the time to read. My afternoons & evenings usually involve catching up with friends; we’ve been making an effort to do things we wouldn’t usually have the time to do, such as the spontaneous day trip to Surrey Hills we did last week. This has definitely helped me stay positive lately.
It’s now day 3 of my summer internship with the People Lab. I’m still finding my feet in this job and am excited to fall into my new routine for the next couple of months.
How have you personally had to adapt to accommodate what’s happening?
On the 16th of March, university officially closed for the (academic) year. It must have been only a week or so before this that my friends and I were getting excited about going on the annual Sussex ski trip. Within a week the trip was cancelled, teaching was suspended, my international friends had rushed back over the borders, and we packed our bags and moved out of first year halls for good. It all happened so quickly.
I then had to adapt to this new way of learning- completely online. It was much harder not being able to ask questions and having to figure things out on my own. However, I found a routine and (somehow) made it through until the end of term!
And what have been the biggest challenges (working and personal)?
I’m definitely what many people would describe as a ‘workaholic’. Without my busy lifestyle ensuring that I don’t work all day every day, I’ve found it pretty hard to switch off in the evenings.
What do you miss most about your life pre Covid 19 (working and personal)?
Socialising with no fears of a virus. For me, one of the best things about being a student is that I’m always meeting new people. While it can be tiring going out multiple times a week, it’s a feeling that I really miss. Although I’m still making an effort to spend time with my friends, maintaining social distancing definitely makes it a bit strange. The lack of hugs is also something I miss!
I think this one applies to both my working and my personal life. Lectures from my laptop aren’t quite the same as being in a room with 500 others and starting a conversation with the complete stranger next to me.
What surprisingly good things have emerged in your life since this began?
With my plans to travel Bali and Thailand cancelled, and the restaurant I worked for closed, I started to feel a bit purposeless…
The search for a job began and I somehow managed to land myself an internship with the People Lab.
I might not be getting a tan this year, but I am getting some amazing experience with a great company!
What have you learnt about yourself during this?
That I actually love spontaneity. As someone who has a habit of sticking to a rigid structure, letting go of this has led to some amazing memories.
What do you hope we as a society learn from this situation?
I hope we become more empathetic about what others may be going through. This has been the first time that multiple friends of mine have lost people close to them. It’s taught me a lot about supporting those who are in an emotionally vulnerable state- and sadly this applies to a lot of people right now.
What has helped you to cope with your situation?
Exercise (…and cocktails)
What message would you like to pass onto others?
It’s good to be productive, but not at the expense of your mental health. We’re in a global pandemic, not a productivity contest.
Finally, what’s on your ‘Playlist’?
Favourite meal? –If the sun is shining, then I am always up for BBQ.
Boxset/film or book? – My favourite book that I read recently is ‘Women Don’t Owe You Pretty’ by Florence Given- very eye-opening and empowering, I just wish I’d read it when I was 13!
Things to do that just makes you happy! – The simple things like walking my dog and getting coffee with friends.
