It’s hard to believe it’s been 5 years since the world shut down.
March 2020 feels like a lifetime ago, yet some memories—like stockpiling toilet paper, curfews, ZOOM dates, and baking (lots of) banana bread—are still so fresh.
Back then, we thought it would all be over in a just a few weeks. Instead, COVID reshaped the way we live, work, and connect.
Now, in 2025, life looks normal again—but is it really? Here’s a look at how things have changed over the last 5 years.
1. Everybody wants to work from home
Before the pandemic, hybrid work was a rare perk—and fully remote jobs, even rarer. But nowadays, if a job posting requires being in the office full-time, most of us don’t even bother applying.
Some companies are pushing for a return to the office, but let’s be real—once you’ve experienced sweatpants, a commute-free morning, and the perfect home office setup (complete with an ergonomic chair), there’s no going back!
2. Hanging out looks different now
Remember when ZOOM happy hours and endless nights of playing Among Us were a thing? Thankfully, those are (mostly) behind us. But socializing has changed.
Some friendships (and some marriages) didn’t survive, while others grew stronger. Big parties and events are back, but a lot of people now prefer smaller, more meaningful hangouts. And yes, some people still hesitate before going in for a hug.
3. Travel is the new Birkin
If the pandemic taught us anything, it’s that life is short, and the things we buy often don’t hold as much value as the experiences we create.
More people are spending their money on unforgettable trips instead of material things. Whether it’s a weekend getaway, returning to the motherland to reconnect with roots, or diving into “revenge travel” to make up for lost trips, travel has become more valuable than ever.
4. Mental health is no longer a taboo topic
Talking about anxiety, burnout, and therapy isn’t as hush-hush anymore. The pandemic put mental health front and center, and now, self-care is more than just a buzzword.
People are setting boundaries, prioritizing work-life balance, and recognizing that the “grind culture” isn’t worth sacrificing mental well-being.
5. We’re all just trying to enjoy the moment
If there’s one big takeaway from the pandemic, it’s that nothing is guaranteed. People are making more intentional choices—about careers, relationships, and how and with whom they spend their time.
More than ever, we’re prioritizing what really matters—whether that’s spending quality time with family, or cherishing those quiet moments that often get overlooked. After all, we know now just how fast things can change.
So where were you in March 2020? And how has your life changed since then? Let’s chat in the comments!
The Lilac Blog 