Most of us complained about how hectic our lives have become , and wished for more hours during the day to achieve better work-life balance. Many of us claimed that we were too busy to do the things we really like, that we could not slow down to enjoy and take it easy. Well, Corona virus is anything but good news , yet it is forcing us to slow down. We can try to make the most of our time while locked at home until this global nightmare ends. No one knows how long this disaster will hover over our heads! It could last for three weeks or three months or more. So here is a list I made with ideas on what to do while at home:
1- Looking after ourselves and those near and dear to us is essential! Then, we could look out for those who are less lucky : the elderly who don’t have support in our community (or extended family), the homeless who don’t have a place to go or soap and water to wash their hands, the hourly paid service-provider, and other vulnerable groups in our communities etc.
2- catch up with friends and family ( virtually): we always blame our busy lives for losing touch, well this is our opportunity! No excuses ! Scroll down your contact lists and reach out to old friends or family members with whom you lost contact. Call them (or write to them) and be proactive, it’s worth it 🙂
3- catch up on your passions : whether it is drawing , reading or watching movies, there is more time for all of that now. Don’t blame time, you have no one to blame if you don’t make use of this time to do something you like.
4- exercise : the internet is full of ideas of simple and effective home exercises that don’t require any equipment. Exercise daily! It positively impacts your immunity and enhances your mood 🙂
5- manage your data : organise the data you have on paper, on your mobile and laptop etc : backup important photos and contacts , and delete repeated photos from your gallery. Update your profiles on social media and LinkedIn etc.
6- cook creatively : try new recipes to match the food and ingredients you managed to buy or store. Involve your family members if possible and have fun.
7- Travel: take a virtual tour of 12 amazing museums around the world for free.
8 – learn something new : there are excellent free courses from Ivy League universities that you can follow online .
9- reflect on your life : this is a good time to ask yourself if you are going in the right direction…if you are satisfied with yourself , your career , your relationships etc. You can mediate or create a comfortable atmosphere to put yourself at ease before approaching these questions. Use a pen and paper or whatever tools you are comfortable with.
10- tell the people you love that you love them: life is short and expressing your emotions will help you and your loved ones to cheer up and stay strong.
Oh and keep singing and listening to music. Keep safe and strong 🙂
Love and peace! Anas