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?
James, I am an apprentice test engineer. I test and repair different power supply units which are distributed into different industries around the world, including hospitals.
How did you start your day today?
I woke up at 5:45am got showered, dressed and made coffee. I made my way into work for 7am. This is earlier than a typical day due to the coronavirus – we all have to start at different times to keep to social distancing guidelines.
What was a typical day like for you before Covid-19?
A typical day for me is working all day, then after I would go to the gym, then either go home, or see my girlfriend Amy, or my friends. On the weekend I would usually see my girlfriend and friends, go out for a drink, dinner, or just relax and watch the football. Occasionally I would drive to Portsmouth to see my dad and other family as well.
And what’s a typical day like now?
During the week it’s not much different to any other except starting work earlier and not being able to go to the gym after work. The drive to and from work is much nicer due to there being far less traffic on the roads. The weekends are pretty dull as we are unable to go out and do nice things and socialise with our friends and family – there’s also no football which is deeply missed. I have also temporarily moved in with my girlfriend and her mum, otherwise I would go weeks, if not months, without seeing her.
What’s been the biggest change to your life in light of Covid-19
Probably my living arrangements.
How have you personally had to adapt to accommodate what’s happening?
As a precaution, when I get home from work, I shower and put my clothes straight in the wash. I have to take home my PPE work equipment, as they have closed the lockers to avoid having too many people in there at once.
And what’s been the biggest challenges
Being unable to see my family and friends. Also keeping up with the increased demand at work whilst following social distancing guidelines.
What do you miss most about your life pre Covid?
Freedom!
And what are you most looking forward to when lockdown ends?
Visiting my family, especially my Nan. Getting a haircut! And being able to go out with my friends and girlfriend too.
What surprisingly good things have emerged in your life since?
I’ve saved a lot of money not being able to go out! Gratitude for everything I was able to do before lockdown.
What other positives are there about the situation for you?
I’ve spoken to long distance relatives more often. Spending more time with my girlfriend and her mum.
What’s the most interesting thing you’ve done since lockdown?
Teaching my 86-year-old nan how to FaceTime.
What do you hope we learn as a society from the situation?
To listen government advice straight away before it gets out of control. To continue to take care of our neighbours too, especially the elderly, when this is all over.
What is helping you to cope with your situation?
Decent BBQ weather and my PlayStation!
Finally for our happiness playlist what are your favourite:
– Box set? – Luther
– Film? – Starwars
– Song? – Slim Shady LP 1 Album
– Meal? – Chinese takeaway
– Makes you happy? – Speaking to my family.
