Relationships in the World of COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic changed our way of living fundamentally, but what happened to our relationships?
Connecting in a world turned upside down by the pandemic: The escalation in spread of the virus caused people to be cautious, which led to new norms like social distancing and wearing face masks. As a result, among other things, the fear of the virus, trust issues and the increased stress levels due to the current situation have driven a wedge between people. These unprecedented times are constantly testing the strength of our already existing bonds as well as the ability to create new links in a rapidly changing environment.
As one of the consequences of COVID-19, in both the offline and online world, meaningful relationships require more effort than ever.
Sooner or later all relationships come to point of face-to-face meetings. However, the pandemic totally rewrote the roots of these social exchanges. In the current technological era we are able to go on with our lives at home in a so-called “bubble” with the aim of reducing the time spent in public spaces to the minimum.


Image from Unsplash.com
Even if it is really necessary to go outdoors we are usually in a rush, we keep enlarged personal spaces and wear clothes from head to toe in order to avoid any physical contact with any possible source of the virus.
Can we conclude that relationships are doomed due to the pandemic?
One thing is sure, we have to learn to adapt to the new circumstances in order to be able to establish and nurture fruitful relationships.
In the following section we highlighted some key areas for you:
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In our self-centered, rushing lifestyle we tend to focus so hard on ourselves that we might forget that everyone is at battle with their own kind of demons. In every situation, but in these times especially it is important to be able to stop for a moment and just listen to the “noises of the world”. In this way one will be able to understand (better) the world – not to forget about each other and what is happening around us, gaining new perspectives which is essential in solving all kind of problems (relationship ones as well) – see also Why Character Education Matters. Patience and understanding are key factors nowadays. When so many questions around a topic, it is difficult to judge whether one answer is “good” or “bad”. As a reason, these days the one who is looking for a long-term, fruitful relationship has to respect and accept the other party’s viewpoint even if it includes in someone’s eyes taking extraordinary measures (e.g. standing 5-10 meters from everyone, asking others constantly to wash hands (not to forget the point of wearing masks) or even only willing to meet in the virtual space). When we feel insecure or threatened we usually build up a “fortress of walls” around us. Undoubtedly, something similar is happening with most of us at the moment using both physical and psychical materials to construct these walls. Getting through these defensive lines can be challenging that requires the combined effort of both the prisoner of the fortress and the hero who comes to rescue the one trapped inside. We live in a world where most of the valuable moments have been modified and transferred into digital space. Usually a transition like this requires a new skill- and mindset which can be difficult to acquire at the beginning. Are you interested in our “Tips and Tricks ” on how to cope with this new world and its social norms? In the next article, we will discuss the communication challenges of face-to-face meetings in a post-COVID world.1. Relationships vs. COVID-19: Own problems = Own universe?
2. Connecting in a “too” cautious world?
3. Battling with the extra layers of protection?
4. Relationships: Online is the new offline?
Author:
Article Writer & Content Contributor
- May 31, 2021

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The opinions expressed in this article/publication are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions or views of GiLE or its members.
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