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Touch -

It's been a while since we could touch someone without thinking about the risks involved. Most of us have experienced touch deprivation this year and it isn't fun. We'll never take it for granted again.

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Hugs -

Hugs are a basic human need! Studies have shown the physical and mental health benefits of hugs. And who doesn't need a cuddle sometimes?

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Smiles - In many countries it's been mandatory to wear masks in public spaces. This means we haven't been able to see half as many smiles as we used to. When someone makes way for you in the supermarket aisle and you smile in thanks, it's often lost behind a mask now.

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Getting a (mask -free) breath of fresh air -

This has also meant that we can't step out of our front doors and take a deep rejuvenating breath of fresh air! When masks are no longer necessary, we'll appreciate the freedom the way we appreciate waking up to a clear nose after having a cold for days!

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Quality time with pets -

For those who used to go out to work every day but now spend the whole day at home with their pets, it's given a whole new appreciation for the love and companionship they provide.

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Dancing - The opportunities to dance have been few and far between. Most spaces that facilitate this joyful activity are closed as it's not safe to get close to people.

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Live music -

Some people went to concerts in their cars this year, but it definitely wasn't the same... Despite all the fantastic free live streams that kept us feeling connected to our favorite artists, it'll be a special moment when we're hearing them perform live in the same room.

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Festivals -

The raw energy of a festival is something that hasn't manifested this year. Hopefully in 2021 there will be opportunities for thousands of people to come together (safely) to celebrate music and being alive!

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Clubs -

There's something special about getting lost in the dark with a heaving crowd of people. Everyone is packed together but somehow it still feels like a moment of privacy.

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Team sports -

For the sporty types out there, the joy of engaging in team sports has been sorely missed this year. The endorphins and feeling of comradery won't be taken for granted again.

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Watching a game with friends -

We've still been able to watch our favorite sporting events at home, whether that be the Grand Prix or the Champions League, but it's not quite the same when you don't have someone there to share the excitement.

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Going to a live event -

On a larger scale, going out to a live event and cheering with thousands of other people is a high that can't be faked! It's been strange to see the empty stands in the background as major sporting events are broadcasted. The next time you're in the stands screaming at the top of your lungs, you'll definitely appreciate it even more!

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Fighting for a pint -

There's nothing like fighting your way to the bar in a crowded pub to shout your order over the counter, and make it back to your table without spilling a drop.

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The humble buffet -

It's been a while since we've laid eyes upon a buffet spread. Whether you go for the Chinese all-you-can-eat, or a classy Italian brunch, it was nice to help yourself sometimes.

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Hotel breakfasts -

There are few simple pleasures in this world that compare to the hotel breakfast. We pray for their speedy return.

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Seeing a movie - A lot of people have watched more movies this year than they watched in their entire lives prior to the pandemic, but they've all been at home. It will be so refreshing to sit in the dark and get irritated by the sounds of other people whispering and chewing loudly!

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The arts -

The same goes for art galleries and museums. The freedom to stroll through large halls filled with history and beauty alongside hundreds of strangers will feel magical when we can do it again. 

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The arts -

Whether you were a theater buff before the pandemic or had never stepped foot in one before, there's something about having something forbidden that makes you want to do it more! If you haven't taken in a live theater show before, make sure to give yourself that pleasure when it's safe again. 

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Boredom -

If you're bored because there's nothing going on, that's actually a good thing! The reason we've been bored so often this year is because we're staying home to prevent the spread of illness. In moments of boredom we can be thankful we're not dealing with being sick or worrying about a loved one who is ill. 

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Isolation -

Isolation might not seem like something to be grateful for, but the truth is that it's a luxury when compared to those who can't afford to live in a safe place, or for those who have to go out and work under scary circumstances.

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Healthcare workers -

Nurses, doctors, and all healthcare workers provide an amazing service for the population. In moments of crisis they carry us and our loved ones, and we're always grateful. This year, however, their hard work and sacrifice has reached another level. Hopefully they'll get more than a round of applause in thanks.  

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Teachers -

Teachers are life-savers in another sense, but they don't often have to risk their own lives to do their jobs. They have proven their dedication to their students and to education this year. 

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Essential workers -

Doctors, nurses, firemen, and teachers are all jobs that can be vocations. What about supermarket cashiers and sanitation workers? They are also taking huge risks to ensure we continue to enjoy the same quality of life. 

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Parents -

Being a parent is already a challenge, but millions of parents all over the world did the impossible this year and managed to juggle jobs and home-schooling as well as all their other responsibilities. Truly amazing.  

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Connecting without fear -

In the past, we could choose to reach out and help someone if we felt like it. That could be helping an elderly person carry their groceries or stopping to talk to a homeless person. Now we have to consider if we're putting them at risk by doing so. When danger has dissipated, perhaps we'll take the opportunity to reach out more often. 

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Having choices - Even if you spent most of your time sitting around at home watching Netflix, it was nice to know you had the choice to go out and do something wild if you wanted to.

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Letting go of control -

We never really had control over the world but the pandemic has really highlighted that fact. There's something relieving about letting go and accepting that certain things in life are out of our hands.

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Visiting older relatives -

Many of us might have seen this as a bit of a chore and did not make the effort to visit our elderly relatives as often as we should have. Now that we can't due to the health risks, it's put things in a new perspective. During these difficult times there has been a lot of comfort and inspiration to be found in those who have already survived pandemics and world wars!

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Ourselves -

Unless you're a parent working 10-hour days while looking after your kids during their virtual schooldays and taking care of your home, you've probably had a lot of time alone with yourself this year. Maybe that's something we can continue to prioritize as things return to normal.

Sources: (Develop Good Habits)

See also: The latest travel trends for 2021

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