Before you go mad at the order to #stayathome, remember that there’s plenty to do aside from bingeing a certain series about exotic tigers.
All this extra time has enabled our creative minds to wander, and realise some of those extra projects that we said we’d get around to if only we had a spare minute.
Learn a new skill
Pink has taken the opportunity to add piano to her musical repertoire, learning the instrument and performing Bob Dylan’s classic ballad ‘Make You Feel My Love.’
Not all of us have to become musical aficionados, but many short courses are on offer for ridiculously low prices as people try to upskill in their downtime. Have a story you’ve always wanted to tell but didn’t quite have the words to express it? Try this short writing course on offer from the New York Post.
Keep in touch with friends and fam
Zoom has made it commonplace to have conferences in our bedrooms, and dance parties in our pyjamas. Discord, while created for the gaming community, makes it easier to host games with friends, including the classic murder mystery ‘How to Host a Murder.’
Adopt a foster pet
The old age ‘don’t adopt, shop’ has never been more appropriate as we look for companionship in isolation. With limited physical access to family members, pets are there for us when we crave affection and touch. The RSPCA has seen a surge in adoptions as people look for emotional support. Just remember, like raising a child, it’s a lifelong commitment and one that should not be taken lightly.
Teach a skill
Some of you may remember the days of high school when we’d learn the equivalent of home economics. That was more likely to be the name our parents gave us our design and technology subjects, but essential life skills like financing, being a great conversationalist or even sewing a button are useful outside of the home as well. Maybe you’re fiscally savvy, can recommend books to read that are engaging to talk about or you’ve pulled out a sewing kit recently. These are all worth learning (and teaching to others)!
Keep a journal
Track all these thoughts and feelings by getting them out of your head and onto paper. One day people may ask you what it was like during the Great ‘Rona Lockdown of 2020. Imagine how amazing it will feel to once again attend concerts, organise brunch with the gals or walk freely down the streets knowing full well what it was like to not have those things. It’s also an opportunity to do an introspective on yourself. With nowhere to be (outside of essential shopping), you might find it easier to listen to your innermost thoughts and desires and hear what they’re telling you.
Most importantly, be patient with yourself. There’s no mandate on walking out of quarantine completely glowed up, but when you look back on this unusual time in our lives, it might not be so bad after all.
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