There isn’t anyone who hasn’t been impacted emotionally by lockdown. No-one. That isn’t a bold naïve statement. It’s an easy matter of fact. Every single one of us has re-evaluated and undergone an emotional de-clutter. Choosing what you want to do and learning what you love to do has risen to the fore. 

This new model of self-awareness will lead to new trends. Tech that has won during lockdown are platforms that enabled us to stay close and discover from the safety of our homes. With no-one watching, no-one judging us. 

1. DanceBox Instagram dance classes

2. DaisyMayCooper on Instagram

3. The satisfaction of buying from independents who thank you personally in email and deliver quickly in handwritten envelopes

Happening prior to Covid, but accelerated into relevance - respecting and observing slow behaviours, absorbing moments, noticing, respecting personal space, listening, considering.       

Many millions of people have spent the time clearing, sorting, evaluating. This has created masses upon masses of ‘stuff’ that must be dealt with. Local tips will quickly become overwhelmed, while stacks will pile up outside charity shops (they already are). Recycling will see a boom, as will jumbles, car boots and eBay. 

Control was taken from us. There has already been a protest against lockdown. Many thousands of people’s lives ruined and changed, fighting for the right to control their destiny. When we are handed back the reins on our lives, people will clamour to grab them and use them to make choices – steer their own path again. There will be louder demand for flexible working conditions, there may be a drop in demand for domestic roles, a clamour for learning in DIY and gardening. A desire for self-improvement in standing on your own two feet. 

Delivery services have improved, delivery service processes have improved. The Milkman saw unprecedented demand as people woke up to the magic of an early morning doorstep delivery of essentials. Facebook has expedited and launched Shops where you can shop and purchase without having to leave its owned applications: Instagram, Facebook, Messenger, Whats App. This was something we knew was ‘coming’. It’s no surprise it has happened at this moment in time. 

Helpless as we watched the final demise of stalwarts Debenhams, Beales Oasis, Warehouse, and walked alone through dormant high streets. Not only was the air eery on bank holiday Monday but the dust now settling on boarded shopfronts is heart breaking. As the doors re-open we will flock to them. Observing the new rules of behaviour, we don’t believe that this ‘nation of shopkeepers’ will be able to stand back and allow our high streets to crumble. 

What will you clamour back for, or choose to lose when lockdown is released?