FabSwingers.com forum: Lockdown Learnings

By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

Today was a year since our office closed and we all went home to work. Last week, we were chatting about how difficult it's been, but we also reflected on the things we've learnt, grown to appreciate and how it's changed our interactions with those around us.

For me, it's really made me appreciate those I love and care for, and I've made lots of effort to be in touch more, even writing weekly letters to people to say hi. Can't rmemeber the last time I communicated with a pen and a slice of paper...

Has lockdown given brought anything positive into your life?

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I left a rubbish job and started one I love last year so one huge positive.

More generally it's been a time of reflection and thought which is always welcome in our busy lives.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

What surprised me this year was that I'd thought lots of people would be trying to communicate, but it seems that the struggles have made people close down more.

Makes sense in a way that you'd conserve your energy, I've found it hard to tolerate some people and have often chosen solitude despite wishing I had people I could talk with.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I left a rubbish job and started one I love last year so one huge positive.

More generally it's been a time of reflection and thought which is always welcome in our busy lives.

That's amazing, it's so important to be in a job you love.

It's definitely allowed more space for reflection, I'll agree there too!

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"What surprised me this year was that I'd thought lots of people would be trying to communicate, but it seems that the struggles have made people close down more.

Makes sense in a way that you'd conserve your energy, I've found it hard to tolerate some people and have often chosen solitude despite wishing I had people I could talk with."

Sadly I think this is true for many, I've seen people blossom during lockdown and watched others totally detach from the world.

I am sorry you've felt you've had no one to talk with, I hope the forums bring you a small comfort, I know loneliness is painful. Sending a hug x

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I left a rubbish job and started one I love last year so one huge positive.

More generally it's been a time of reflection and thought which is always welcome in our busy lives.

I also started a new job and I'm really enjoying it too.

Would not have tried if lockdown hadn't happened..

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By *luebell888Woman
over a year ago

Glasgowish

I have cut and dyed my hair. Maybe not quite perfect but it is ok.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I put on Furlough exactly a year ago today because of my health. I was out for 4 months

My mental health took a battering and I'm still recovering. Small achievements and small goals.

Now I take nothing for granted, my family or my job.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

Hi op.

Other than learning about new amazing ppl on here, I managed to complete the Rubik's cube finally.

Errrr.. that's about it.

Oh..o have also learnt I'm meant to wash my hands!!!!

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I left a rubbish job and started one I love last year so one huge positive.

More generally it's been a time of reflection and thought which is always welcome in our busy lives.

I also started a new job and I'm really enjoying it too.

Would not have tried if lockdown hadn't happened.. "

That's amazing! Is it something completely different from what you were doing previously?

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I have cut and dyed my hair. Maybe not quite perfect but it is ok."

Ooooh that's clever!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I left a rubbish job and started one I love last year so one huge positive.

More generally it's been a time of reflection and thought which is always welcome in our busy lives.

I also started a new job and I'm really enjoying it too.

Would not have tried if lockdown hadn't happened..

That's amazing! Is it something completely different from what you were doing previously? "

Yes completely different and better hours and no working weekends so much better

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I put on Furlough exactly a year ago today because of my health. I was out for 4 months

My mental health took a battering and I'm still recovering. Small achievements and small goals.

Now I take nothing for granted, my family or my job.

I am so glad to hear you're recovering

, its certainly been a tough year mentally as well as everything else.

So good to be appreciative of what you have

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I have worked from home for a year also so in exactly the same position.... The big positive is having more time to exercise... Really enjoying it

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Hi op.

Other than learning about new amazing ppl on here, I managed to complete the Rubik's cube finally.

Errrr.. that's about it.

Oh..o have also learnt I'm meant to wash my hands!!!!"

I might need proof of the cube Jim! Glad you're getting to know some amazing new people, I echo that sentiment too

Do you sing a song while you wash your hands?

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By *razzyhorseMan
over a year ago

cambridge

Lucky to have been working throughout but one thing i've done more is to let those around you know how much they're loved and treasured.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I left a rubbish job and started one I love last year so one huge positive.

More generally it's been a time of reflection and thought which is always welcome in our busy lives.

I also started a new job and I'm really enjoying it too.

Would not have tried if lockdown hadn't happened..

That's amazing! Is it something completely different from what you were doing previously?

Yes completely different and better hours and no working weekends so much better

That's wonderful, so happy for you!

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By *ig_eric_tionMan
over a year ago

IPSWICH

I went into this quite fed up that I could lose all I'd worked for with my business. Instead its forced me to take a leap in the way I'd planned but not quite yet. All good so far.

There have been negatives too but those aren't the fault of covid.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I left a rubbish job and started one I love last year so one huge positive.

More generally it's been a time of reflection and thought which is always welcome in our busy lives.

I also started a new job and I'm really enjoying it too.

Would not have tried if lockdown hadn't happened..

That's amazing! Is it something completely different from what you were doing previously?

Yes completely different and better hours and no working weekends so much better

That's wonderful, so happy for you! "

Thank you...

I know it's been hard for a lot of people and my heart goes out to them x

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I have worked from home for a year also so in exactly the same position.... The big positive is having more time to exercise... Really enjoying it

It's amazing how much time we've clawed back without travel. I do not miss trains or tubes in the slightest. Amazing that you have more time now, exercise is good for the head as well as body

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Lucky to have been working throughout but one thing i've done more is to let those around you know how much they're loved and treasured.

That's lovely to hear. We can never tell them enough can we

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I went into this quite fed up that I could lose all I'd worked for with my business. Instead its forced me to take a leap in the way I'd planned but not quite yet. All good so far.

There have been negatives too but those aren't the fault of covid.

Glad it's all good so far for you, long may that continue!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Hi op.

Other than learning about new amazing ppl on here, I managed to complete the Rubik's cube finally.

Errrr.. that's about it.

Oh..o have also learnt I'm meant to wash my hands!!!!

I might need proof of the cube Jim! Glad you're getting to know some amazing new people, I echo that sentiment too

Do you sing a song while you wash your hands? "

I sing hello by Lionel Richie..

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By *uenevereWoman
over a year ago

Scunthorpe

Lockdown gave me the impetus to actively look for another job.

I move to my new job in April and then start a Masters degree in September.

I'm excited but wondering if I am also slightly crazy

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Sadly I think this is true for many, I've seen people blossom during lockdown and watched others totally detach from the world.

I am sorry you've felt you've had no one to talk with, I hope the forums bring you a small comfort, I know loneliness is painful. Sending a hug x "

Sometimes the forums are great, other times I feel like an impostor on here. On the positive side, it does bring some clarity to why I admire and value certain people.

I was out getting some exercise when the postie tried delivering that hug, so I'm going to have to come and collect it post-lockdown

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Hi op.

Other than learning about new amazing ppl on here, I managed to complete the Rubik's cube finally.

Errrr.. that's about it.

Oh..o have also learnt I'm meant to wash my hands!!!!

I might need proof of the cube Jim! Glad you're getting to know some amazing new people, I echo that sentiment too

Do you sing a song while you wash your hands?

I sing hello by Lionel Richie..

Good song choice. It's very beautiful. Don't like the clay face though.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Lockdown gave me the impetus to actively look for another job.

I move to my new job in April and then start a Masters degree in September.

I'm excited but wondering if I am also slightly crazy

Crazy is good! It's fabulous that you've got two new beginnings! What's your masters in? No problems if you don't want to share

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"Lockdown gave me the impetus to actively look for another job.

I move to my new job in April and then start a Masters degree in September.

I'm excited but wondering if I am also slightly crazy

Well done

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Sadly I think this is true for many, I've seen people blossom during lockdown and watched others totally detach from the world.

I am sorry you've felt you've had no one to talk with, I hope the forums bring you a small comfort, I know loneliness is painful. Sending a hug x

Sometimes the forums are great, other times I feel like an impostor on here. On the positive side, it does bring some clarity to why I admire and value certain people.

I was out getting some exercise when the postie tried delivering that hug, so I'm going to have to come and collect it post-lockdown

I know its hard but don't feel you're an imposter, you've as much right to be here as the next

Damn postie, I told him to chase you until he found you with it, lazy bugger

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By *ea monkeyMan
over a year ago

Manchester (he/him)

Taking a years break has been great for life, love and mental health for both of us.

It’s strange that this past year has had so many positives whilst others have suffered so much.

In terms of learning, I’ve realised that some people around here really do care and reached out. That others were only in it for what they could get and that some were being respectful.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Taking a years break has been great for life, love and mental health for both of us.

It’s strange that this past year has had so many positives whilst others have suffered so much.

In terms of learning, I’ve realised that some people around here really do care and reached out. That others were only in it for what they could get and that some were being respectful. "

As wise as ever, Tea. I'm glad it's brought wonderful things to both of your lives. You deserve it.

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By *eliWoman
over a year ago

"Taking a years break has been great for life, love and mental health for both of us.

It’s strange that this past year has had so many positives whilst others have suffered so much.

In terms of learning, I’ve realised that some people around here really do care and reached out. That others were only in it for what they could get and that some were being respectful. "

You mean to say... taking time away from here worked?

And another one for the hell of it.

Oh wait, one more.

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By *ea monkeyMan
over a year ago

Manchester (he/him)

"Taking a years break has been great for life, love and mental health for both of us.

It’s strange that this past year has had so many positives whilst others have suffered so much.

In terms of learning, I’ve realised that some people around here really do care and reached out. That others were only in it for what they could get and that some were being respectful.

You mean to say... taking time away from here worked?

And another one for the hell of it.

Oh wait, one more.

Shhhh! The fanfare for the ‘I told you so’ opera is more than enough

It was as much enforced as it was chosen but it was absolutely the right thing to happen

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By *ea monkeyMan
over a year ago

Manchester (he/him)

"Taking a years break has been great for life, love and mental health for both of us.

It’s strange that this past year has had so many positives whilst others have suffered so much.

In terms of learning, I’ve realised that some people around here really do care and reached out. That others were only in it for what they could get and that some were being respectful.

As wise as ever, Tea. I'm glad it's brought wonderful things to both of your lives. You deserve it. "

Thanks lovely. Your rainbow is on the way, surely!

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"Taking a years break has been great for life, love and mental health for both of us.

It’s strange that this past year has had so many positives whilst others have suffered so much.

In terms of learning, I’ve realised that some people around here really do care and reached out. That others were only in it for what they could get and that some were being respectful.

As wise as ever, Tea. I'm glad it's brought wonderful things to both of your lives. You deserve it.

Thanks lovely. Your rainbow is on the way, surely! "

I am forever hopeful dear Tea, there has been enough rain fallen, I hope a rainbow is not too far away

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I have learned that no matter what life has thrown at me that I'm strong enough to face it head on.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I have learned that no matter what life has thrown at me that I'm strong enough to face it head on. "

Amazing. Having your strength tested feels awful at the time, but when you come out at the end and realise just how strong you are, it's incredible, not to mention character building

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

It has taught me that I am sane, free thinking & strong where as most people seem to be insane, blind followers & soft as shit.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I have learned that no matter what life has thrown at me that I'm strong enough to face it head on.

Amazing. Having your strength tested feels awful at the time, but when you come out at the end and realise just how strong you are, it's incredible, not to mention character building

It really was. Thank you x

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"It has taught me that I am sane, free thinking & strong where as most people seem to be insane, blind followers & soft as shit."

I'll applaud you for the first half of the sentence, glad you've found confidence in your place.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I have learned that no matter what life has thrown at me that I'm strong enough to face it head on.

Amazing. Having your strength tested feels awful at the time, but when you come out at the end and realise just how strong you are, it's incredible, not to mention character building

It really was. Thank you x "

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By *xydadbodMan
over a year ago

Milton keynes

I've learned to cut my own hair. Whether the back looks straight or not.. that part is still a mystery to me lol

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I've learned to cut my own hair. Whether the back looks straight or not.. that part is still a mystery to me lol"

Haha! Sod the back! As long as the bits you can see look good, I'd take that as a win, success and high five!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I've learned to cut my own hair. Whether the back looks straight or not.. that part is still a mystery to me lol

Haha! Sod the back! As long as the bits you can see look good, I'd take that as a win, success and high five!

Everyone change your profile to a picture of the back of your head

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I've learned to cut my own hair. Whether the back looks straight or not.. that part is still a mystery to me lol

Haha! Sod the back! As long as the bits you can see look good, I'd take that as a win, success and high five!

Everyone change your profile to a picture of the back of your head

Not a chance, mine looks like a birds nest!

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By *atnip make me purrWoman
over a year ago

Reading

My grown up daughters live with me and have kept me sane. I also love no commute and no bras!

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By *eliWoman
over a year ago

I've learned a few things - one, I'm invisible on the forums now.

Two - I actually quite like me. Yes I overthink, yes I'm very much Aspie but that's okay. I don't need to change who I am to be liked. Nor do I need to be universally liked.

Three - People can be really supportive and lovely, even to a relative stranger. I've had some lovely messages off the back of self pitying posts, some kind words from friends and little displays of affection and encouragement.

Four - I need to stop wasting time and waiting to do certain things. Like losing weight. Applying for a promotion. Life is far too short and Doc's leaving thread really resonated with me.

Five - I like writing about sex and all its complications and nuances.

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"My grown up daughters live with me and have kept me sane. I also love no commute and no bras!"

Win win win!!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

I had 8 weeks of which was cool! No emails no business calls just time with my kids having fun x

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By *xydadbodMan
over a year ago

Milton keynes

"I've learned to cut my own hair. Whether the back looks straight or not.. that part is still a mystery to me lol

Haha! Sod the back! As long as the bits you can see look good, I'd take that as a win, success and high five!

Everyone change your profile to a picture of the back of your head

Not a chance, mine looks like a birds nest!

Haha I don't even know what mine looks like.. for all I know it could be loopy to the left

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I had 8 weeks of which was cool! No emails no business calls just time with my kids having fun x"

Ahhhh, that's awesome! Were you homeschooling too? x

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I've learned to cut my own hair. Whether the back looks straight or not.. that part is still a mystery to me lol

Haha! Sod the back! As long as the bits you can see look good, I'd take that as a win, success and high five!

Everyone change your profile to a picture of the back of your head

Not a chance, mine looks like a birds nest!

Haha I don't even know what mine looks like.. for all I know it could be loopy to the left "

It's OK, I got ya back, it's spot on. Carry on!

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I had 8 weeks of which was cool! No emails no business calls just time with my kids having fun x

Ahhhh, that's awesome! Were you homeschooling too? x"
yep I was in charge of sport! Rugby, football and cricket everyday x

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I had 8 weeks of which was cool! No emails no business calls just time with my kids having fun x

Ahhhh, that's awesome! Were you homeschooling too? x yep I was in charge of sport! Rugby, football and cricket everyday x"
.

Brilliant! Bet they loved it too, super dad x

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I've learned a few things - one, I'm invisible on the forums now.

Two - I actually quite like me. Yes I overthink, yes I'm very much Aspie but that's okay. I don't need to change who I am to be liked. Nor do I need to be universally liked.

Four - I need to stop wasting time and waiting to do certain things. Like losing weight. Applying for a promotion. Life is far too short and Doc's leaving thread really resonated with me.

Five - I like writing about sex and all its complications and nuances."

Meli. Never invisible. You shine too brightly. You're so honest and reflective with yourself. I think you're lovely, and I'd bake a cake for you any time

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By *inky_couple2020Couple
over a year ago

North West

I've discovered I'm even tougher than I thought I was. I can do 2 or 3 people's jobs for almost eight months, with a 3yo at home for four of the months, and have multiple serious events happen to close family members and to us and still not completely lose the plot.

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By (user no longer on site)
over a year ago

"I had 8 weeks of which was cool! No emails no business calls just time with my kids having fun x

Ahhhh, that's awesome! Were you homeschooling too? x yep I was in charge of sport! Rugby, football and cricket everyday x.

Well they didn't want to go back to school lolol x

Brilliant! Bet they loved it too, super dad x"

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I've discovered I'm even tougher than I thought I was. I can do 2 or 3 people's jobs for almost eight months, with a 3yo at home for four of the months, and have multiple serious events happen to close family members and to us and still not completely lose the plot. "

That's strength right there. I am sorry you have gone through so much but to come through without losing the plot is quite a feat x

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By (user no longer on site) OP
over a year ago

"I had 8 weeks of which was cool! No emails no business calls just time with my kids having fun x

Ahhhh, that's awesome! Were you homeschooling too? x yep I was in charge of sport! Rugby, football and cricket everyday x.

Well they didn't want to go back to school lolol x

Brilliant! Bet they loved it too, super dad x"
... Lol, that's true, sport or school, no contest, right?!

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