Let’s be honest, 2020 felt like a never-ending series of unfortunate events. But amidst the chaos, some unexpected good things actually happened. Yes, really! Before we completely bury 2020, let’s take a moment to acknowledge some positive outcomes from that unforgettable year.
Pet Adoptions Soared
One of the happiest stories of 2020 was the incredible surge in pet adoptions. With more people staying home, shelters saw a huge increase in demand for furry friends. Happily Ever After Animal Sanctuary in Wisconsin, for example, reported a 30% increase in adoptions. Shelters in Europe and Australia were even emptied! This meant more loving homes for dogs and cats, and a bright spot in a difficult time.
Wild Animals Thrived in Our Absence
With fewer tourists and less human activity, wild animals experienced a bit of a renaissance. Humpback whales sang peacefully off the coast of Alaska, sika deer roamed freely in Japan, and wild turkeys gathered in Oakland, California. Even a sea lion enjoyed some time on land near Buenos Aires. It was a reminder of nature’s resilience when given a chance.
Eloping Became the New Wedding Trend
Large, traditional weddings took a hit in 2020, and many couples opted for elopements instead. This shift away from elaborate ceremonies offered a refreshing change. Couples realized that amidst a global pandemic, a lavish wedding just didn’t feel as important anymore, and focused on what truly mattered: their love for each other.
Divorces Increased, Leading to New Beginnings
While it might seem negative, the rise in divorce rates during 2020 highlighted underlying issues in relationships. The stress and challenges of the pandemic acted as a catalyst, forcing couples to confront problems they may have been avoiding. Ultimately, many people chose to start anew, recognizing that they were better off apart.
Mother Nature Got a Much-Needed Break
Lockdowns and reduced human activity provided Mother Nature with a chance to recover. Air quality improved significantly, rivers became cleaner, and noise pollution decreased. With fewer cars on the road and less industrial waste, the planet experienced a period of respite and healing.
Real Estate Prices Surged in Suburban Areas
As people fled crowded cities in search of more space, real estate prices in suburban areas soared. This created opportunities for homeowners in these areas to build equity and improve their financial situations. The demand for suburban living reflected a shift in priorities, with elbow room becoming a valuable asset.
Working From Home Became Widely Accepted
One of the biggest changes of 2020 was the widespread adoption of working from home. What was once a perk became a necessity, and many companies discovered that it actually worked quite well. Employees saved time and money on commutes, and businesses often saw increased productivity and engagement.
People Rediscovered the Joy of Reading
With more time spent at home, many people turned to books for entertainment and escape. Surveys showed a significant increase in reading, with individuals diving into everything from thrillers to literary classics. It was a reminder of the simple pleasure of getting lost in a good book.
Facts Were Prioritized Over Feelings
The pandemic forced a shift towards prioritizing facts and evidence over personal feelings. With lives on the line, there was less tolerance for misinformation and denial. People began to rely more on scientific expertise and data to make informed decisions.
Medical Science Rose to the Challenge
Perhaps the most significant positive development of 2020 was the rapid progress in medical science. The development of COVID-19 vaccines in record time was a testament to human ingenuity and collaboration. It showed the world what’s possible when scientists and researchers work together to solve a global crisis.
2020 was undeniably a tough year, but it also brought some unexpected silver linings. From increased pet adoptions to a renewed appreciation for science, these positive outcomes offer hope and lessons for the future.
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