It’s been nearly five years since the world first entered quarantine. In the past five years a lot has changed. It’s hard to find anything that was unchanged by the events of 2020. A generation of kids marked their childhoods by the pandemic, pop culture, politics, technology, daily life, and of course how we view health and sickness have been forever altered. But with five years of growth, we’re finally leaving 2020 in the past, mostly.
From 2020 to 2025, the world has seen significant changes, particularly for the generation that spent crucial developmental years in quarantine. These kids, now on the brink of adulthood, have experienced a unique transition shaped by unprecedented global events.
Pop culture has evolved dramatically. The pandemic accelerated the rise of digital entertainment platforms, with streaming services becoming the primary source of media consumption. TikTok and other social media platforms exploded in popularity, influencing music, fashion, and slang.
The line between traditional celebrities and internet influencers blurred, making the industry easier to break into. Meanwhile, the resurgence of nostalgic content provided comfort during uncertain times, with reboots and revivals of classic shows and movies becoming a staple.
With such a pivotal piece of history interrupting the formative years of a generation, many people found themselves feeling trapped and this led to the need to create change. Many people found their voice advocating for racial justice, climate action, and equality. The political discourse has been heavily influenced by these movements, leading to policy changes and a more engaged younger generation. Globally, the focus has shifted towards addressing the long-term impacts of the pandemic, such as economic recovery and healthcare reform.
Daily life in 2025 is dramatically different from 2020. Remote work and learning, initially a necessity, have become permanent for many, offering flexibility but also blurring the lines between personal and professional life. Technological advancements have continued to shape our routines, from telehealth services becoming mainstream to the integration of AI.
Recapping the past five years, we’ve witnessed the rollout of COVID-19 vaccines along with the return of large-scale events. Environmental concerns have led to increased investments in renewable energy and sustainable practices. The world has adapted, and the generation that grew up in quarantine is now stepping into adulthood with a unique perspective shaped by resilience and adaptability. While we are moving past the pandemic, we have grown immensely since the time of quarantine and we cannot forget the influence it had on modern society.