I definitely feel this to be true for pretty much anyone. When lockdown started, some people bought guns, others bought exercise equipment, others got engaged, moved to the country from the city, etc. The pandemic has removed shackles people felt in their regular lives and has given them an excuse to do what they truly wanted. The logic came later, the desire first. That's what it sounds like your friend is doing...trying to justify his actions after making the decision, instead of bossing up and just saying that's what he wants to do.