28 Things to Do While Inside

Whether its self isolation or social distancing, the most important thing all of us can do right now is stay at home. #flattenthecurve

It also important to realise that staying home is a privilege, and we must not forget those who are unable to do that. 

“I don’t know what to do”

Staying home doesn’t have to be unproductive. 

There are some things you can’t do, but if you’re creative enough there’s still plenty you can.

Sit down and brainstorm some ideas of what you could do. Start with 10. 

You’ll soon find there is plenty you can achieve at home.

Here are some ideas to get you started: 

1. Start a journal or blog. Journaling has always been a challenge for me. But I have just decided to start writing for my own growth. 
2. Invest in your marriage. We are taking The Marriage Course online and found the sessions really helpful, especially the one on conflict. 
3. Practice a musical instrument. If you don’t have one, work on your singing. 
4. Learn a new language. I’m still trying to learn Mandarin.It really comes down to practice, practice, practice. 
5. Take an online professional course. I’ve taken a few courses on Coursera, but there are many others that are free you can find. 
6. Meditate or pray. The value of spending time in meditation or prayer is very underrated
7. Konmari your kitchen and wardrobe. Give or throw stuff away you don’t use anymore. Especially that thing that expired last December that’s still in the fridge.
8. Workout at home or zoom together to workout. I’ve seen friends do it, it looks fun. 
9. Bake. We made focaccia and cinnamon rolls. (Truth: my wife made both. I ate it. Hey, team effort right?) 
10. Cook and perfect your recipes. The 23rd time making Bolognese? See what you can add or improve to make it better. I found overnight leftover bolognese always tastes better.
11. Make coffee and learn about your beans, grind size and what can you do to improve it.
12. Read a non-fiction book. I suggest to pick up a biography. 
13. Plan your finances. Get going on that budget. 
14. Support a local business. Many of them need your help to keep going.
15. Do something for your neighbourhood. Use your skills to bring joy to your neighbours whether its singing or taking pictures, with social distancing practiced of course.
16. Watch a musical . Not a huge fan of musicals but I’ve enjoyed the Jesus story and Phantom of the Opera. 
17. Subscribe to a new streaming service. Some even give you free trials so you can cancel anytime. 
18. Apply for a job. It’s tough on everyone at the moment, but the only thing you can do is keep going. The least you can do is keep an eye out on what’s available in the job market. 
19. Build something with your kids. I’ve saved up some cardboard and hope to build my daughter the princess castle she always wanted. 
20. Donate money or serve those who are struggling. 
21. Pay off your sleep debt. 
22. Do something creative. You can paint, do some arts and craft or record a song cover. Take this time to explore your creative side. 
23. Clean out your computer. Delete old files and unused applications. 
24. Organize your phone. I’m sure there’s an app you never used before. Delete it.
25. Explore life’s biggest questions.
26. Reactivate LinkedIn and build connections. This is the best time to meet new people in your professional network or industry. 
27. Clean your house. A clean environment helps you be more productive, after all. 
28. Connect with your family. They’re just a Zoom or WhatsApp call away. 

Be Thankful

Staying inside has frustrated introverts and exasperated extroverts. It’s no fun. 

But it doesn’t have to be boring either. 

We can’t change what we can’t control. 

But we can do is make the most of what we have. 

The least you can do in these trying times is to practice gratefulness. 

Look around. What are some things you can still be grateful for?