The COVID-19 pandemic will undoubtedly be remembered for generations to come as one of the darkest events in modern history. However, it can also be said that it did come with a bright side, and that is in the form of countless learning opportunities. As people hunkered down in lockdown, many learned to truly honor their needs and take care of themselves better, as well as pursue significant life changes that have been a long time coming—in wallet-friendly ways, at that. Let’s consider both the possibilities and opportunities.

Pursue a much-needed change.

No doubt, the most notable repercussions of the pandemic and its subsequent restrictions are economic in nature. In fact, millions of people lost their jobs and their businesses when lockdowns started, and it looks like this will continue for a time yet, as the world experiences another recession.

If you’re living in this less-than-ideal situation, no doubt it’s weighing heavily on you. It may be small comfort, but this could actually be an opportunity to pursue something new and interesting—not to mention more fulfilling. Case in point, there are several startup opportunities that are exactly what the world needs in the new normal, so if you’ve always wanted to start a new business, it can be a truly opportune time to do so. Thankfully, there’s no dearth of free resources and tools that can help you in the process.

It also makes sense to pursue a new career. With so many companies pivoting to remote work setups, you may find yourself well-placed to do the same, and enjoy the ease and flexibility that comes with it. Take note, however, that the competition will be high, which is why you want to take extra measures to stand out. This means creating an eye-catching resume, as well as planning ahead for how to exude professionalism in interviews. The first impression will be your appearance, so take pains to have an outfit at the ready, or splurge on a new one in order to look your best. There’s also no need to break the bank in doing so as you can look for promo codes and cashback offers when you shop from online retailers like QVC.

Improve your way of life.

If there’s one valuable thing isolation offered to many people, it’s the gift of free time. There’s no question, indeed, that the best way to make use of this time is by pursuing things that elevate your quality of life. The best part is, it doesn’t need to be drastic or costly at all. In fact, this can be as simple as performing easy and affordable but essential home maintenance tasks that make your home a cleaner, more comfortable, safer, and generally, more pleasant place to live in. So whether it’s starting a garden or even just decluttering your home, notice how it improves your physical and mental health.

And speaking of health, there’s nothing like a pandemic to drive home the necessity of taking better care of your body, as well as your mind. It’s truly a personal journey, which is something many may have forgotten with the plethora of gyms and other health establishments that were easily accessible pre-COVID-19. It’s also something that being in isolation reinforced. Thankfully, with so many videos and apps available to help you exercise, prepare healthy meals, and even reconnect with your inner peace—many of them free—you continue to have sufficient guidance as you work toward your better self.

Suffice it to say, by challenging you in untold ways, the pandemic may have also changed your life for the long haul—and likely without costing you more than what you’re able to give and give up. There’s no denying the world has been forever changed by the coronavirus, and being able to change with it makes you more than ready to move forward. So continue embracing the changes and the lessons as they unfold. You only have yourself to thank for them.

-By Jennifer Scott for Simply Delicious Living with Maryann®