For many of us, reality seems to now be kicking in since the announcements of restrictions easing this month in the UK are now coming into place. People working from home or in the state of furlough are now being permitted to return to work settings towards the end of this month. Schools are now taking in students from specific year groups with more measures implemented within the premises, non-essential retail establishments are now resuming business and supermarkets extending their hours of trading. For many people, the lockdown period has now enabled reflection and contemplation on what it is that is important to us.
Furthermore, the security industry has received praise and has raised awareness that now more than ever, security jobs are essential to the running of operations across many establishments and industries.
Breathe and take time for yourself
Prior to lockdown, many of us were drained from our working lives. There was no concept of time, many of us were struggling physically, mentally and emotionally from both professional and personal life. A lot of us dwelled on problems which could easily be resolved. Money was also a motive for many and for a lot of us, especially in the bigger cities, we often found ourselves comparing ourselves to others and feel as if we are all on the same obstacle course or running the same race.
For many of us, the lockdown period was a time that allowed us to catch our breath. It enabled us to clarify our vision and understand ourselves as individuals. We were able to take time for ourselves to do what we want, hobbies, spending time with the household and sports. For many of us we realised, there are certain connections and ties we need to cut off, there are career changes and future goals that need to change.
For once, lockdown allowed people to take a step back and revaluate life. It’s not all about money or trying to achieve the most, it’s essentially what you truly want; your goals and your passion.
The value of security during lockdown and after
Many people in the security industry continued to work during lockdown. Whether that was in cyber, retail and business security. The demand of security jobs increased as the lockdown period experienced phishing and hacking scams online. Security jobs in retail were also essential to maintain order and safety during operating hours.
The lockdown period allowed security jobs to fall into the category of key workers. Many people recognised the importance of security jobs to not only keep industries running, but the general order of society. With anti-social behaviour taking place across retail outlets, the public have recognised the risks security guards take to ensure there is a consensus and people are protected.
The wages and salaries of security roles were disputed, people recognise some security roles are still underpaid and now many can highlight this issue to hopefully change dynamics after lockdown.
The value of life and value of family
Let us not forget the prime reason lockdown was implemented. Covid-19 took the lives of many this year and has affected many individuals. We all know someone who has received the sad news of family members or friends who have passed away during this pandemic.
Our time away from work, away from social interaction and spending time with our households and loved ones really enabled us to reflect on the people that matter to us the most. Lockdown meant people were taking precautions, people were ensuring their family and friends were safe.
Many of us get caught up in problems revolving work and professional life, sometimes it is easy to neglect the ones that are important in life.
Alongside the pandemic, we saw the atrocity last month that took place in the USA where George Floyd was murdered by a police officer who arrested and restrained him. This led to a wave of demonstrations and protests worldwide, in 2020 we are still needing to voice our rights on an issue that has been prevalent for centuries. An issue that should have been combatted a long time ago, we are still here trying to raise awareness that it is not okay for our basic human rights to be abused due to the colour of our skin.
Lockdown has shaped us, no matter how big or small, but it was a point when the whole world stopped to breathe. We hope that after the lockdown restrictions, we carry with us the lessons learnt this year both within our personal and professional lives.
We hope you have enjoyed our article. Our aim at Quick Click Security is to cenralise access to jobs, training and knowledge - creating a community and working together to professionalise the private security sector.
