Back to…?

It was the “first day back” for everyone in the household today.  Kids started back at school. I started back in the office. We’re all starting the routines we had in days BC (Before Covid).

Almost instantly for me, the amount of wasted time was rattling.

Yes, meeting a scarce few colleagues in person was lovely. Time to read on the train was good. A little break in the afternoon to have lunch, in a nice shady spot overlooking the harbour, in great weather, was definitely welcome.

BUT:

My three hour 2-way commute was exhausting. The preparation for the commute was stressful. The change in energy levels throughout the day was palpable.  Going into the office to get onto video calls seemed pointless.  Productivity was down 50% or more today.

Doing this multiple days a week seems an awful waste of time. I have to ask : Who’s actually gaining anything by this return to BC rituals?  What are we all going back to? Why?