We are in the middle of an uncertain future as the world grapples with the impact of coronavirus.
Many people say we are witnessing a transition to a new way of living—that the world will pivot in ways we never imagined. Activities we once took for granted—watching movies in cinemas, attending sports events, or simply gathering in large groups—may, for a time, become distant memories rather than everyday experiences.
In moments like this, people often look for explanations, patterns, or even predictions. A widely circulated claim suggested that Nostradamus had predicted the coronavirus outbreak.
“There will be a twin year (2020) from which will arise a queen (corona) who will come from the east (China) and who will spread a plague (virus) in the darkness of night, on a country with 7 hills (Italy) and will transform the twilight of men into dust (death), to destroy and ruin the world. It will be the end of the world economy as you know it.”
The claim, however, was debunked by Stephane Gerson, Professor of French and History at New York University. Like many viral claims, it reflects our tendency to search for meaning during uncertain times—even if that meaning is constructed after the fact.
Nevertheless, the situation places us in a heightened sense of uncertainty. Mass services are streamed on YouTube or Facebook, major events like the 2020 Olympics have been postponed, workplaces have shifted to remote setups, and restaurants rely heavily on takeaways and deliveries. It feels like a dystopian scenario—something we used to watch in films, not live through.
Psychologically, uncertainty creates discomfort. Our brains are wired to seek predictability and control. When those are taken away, we compensate by forming beliefs, adjusting behaviors, and finding new ways to cope.
The experience has taught us several lessons, and I personally discovered that…
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..feng shui experts can get it really wrong
A South China Morning Post article published around Chinese New Year made bold predictions about the year ahead, including specific “lucky days” and optimistic projections for the market.
“The [Hang Seng Index] will see good returns in the Year of the Rat…”
In hindsight, these predictions highlight a cognitive bias known as the illusion of control—our tendency to believe we can predict or influence outcomes in an uncertain world. In stable times, such beliefs may feel harmless or even comforting. But during crises, they are quickly exposed.
This reminds us that uncertainty is not something we can eliminate—it’s something we must learn to tolerate.
..little sacrifices we make can save not only our lives but also others
Before the pandemic, many of us pushed through illness—skipping sick leave to meet deadlines or prove dedication. Productivity was often valued more than well-being.
But this crisis reframed that mindset.
With asymptomatic transmission and reinfection risks, going to work while sick is no longer seen as dedication—it’s seen as negligence. This shift reflects a deeper psychological change: from individual performance to collective responsibility.
Wearing masks, staying home, and practicing hygiene may feel like small inconveniences, but they are acts of prosocial behavior—decisions made not just for oneself, but for the safety of others.
..internet-based jobs are more insulated
The pandemic accelerated a shift that was already underway—the normalization of remote work.
For those with internet-based roles, transitioning to working from home provided continuity and a sense of stability. Psychologically, this reduces stress by preserving routine and income.
However, it also exposed inequality in job structures. Many roles—healthcare workers, transport operators, service staff—cannot be done remotely. This creates a divide not just economically, but emotionally, as some experience safety at home while others face daily exposure.
At a broader level, this reinforces the idea that digital infrastructure is no longer optional—it is essential. The internet has become a psychological and economic lifeline.
..money can’t buy happiness—or time
Scenes of panic buying revealed another aspect of human psychology: scarcity mindset.
When people perceive that resources are limited, they act irrationally—hoarding goods, over-purchasing, and prioritizing personal security over fairness. Even those who normally act rationally can fall into this pattern under stress.
While financial resources can provide temporary security, they cannot guarantee peace of mind. Nor can they buy time—especially in moments when time becomes the most valuable resource of all.
The pandemic reminded us that control is often an illusion. What matters more is how we respond when control is taken away.
..governments need more scientists, not just politicians
Crises like this highlight the importance of expertise.
From a psychological standpoint, people look for authority figures during uncertainty. The question is: who should we trust? Those who communicate well, or those who understand deeply? Ideally, both—but when decisions affect public health, evidence-based thinking becomes critical.
Scientists bring structured reasoning, data-driven insights, and long-term thinking. Integrating these into governance can lead to more resilient systems—not just for pandemics, but for future global challenges.
..self-care is as important as ever
Perhaps the most personal lesson is the importance of self-care—not just physically, but mentally.
Uncertainty fuels anxiety. Our minds tend to catastrophize, imagining worst-case scenarios: job loss, illness, isolation. These thoughts can spiral, especially when combined with physical isolation and reduced social contact.
In my case, the situation felt even heavier. My wife was in the Philippines undergoing tests for COVID-19 while also battling kidney disease. Watching her through video calls—seeing her condition while being unable to physically be there—was deeply painful.
At the same time, I was alone, separated from my usual routines and social circles. My mind often drifted into “what if” scenarios, amplifying fear and helplessness.
But even in that space, small actions helped.
Reaching out to friends. Going for morning runs. Learning to cook. These may seem simple, but they are grounding mechanisms—ways to regain a sense of control and stability.
Self-care, in this context, is not indulgence. It is resilience.
So as we navigate this uncertain period, perhaps the most important thing we can do is look after one another—physically, emotionally, and socially.
Because while uncertainty may persist, how we respond to it defines the kind of world we shape moving forward.