I recently watched CNN town hall where Bill Gates was predicting an extension of the Lockdown for another month at best for the US, and much longer for underdeveloped countries.
I, myself, am a homebody, and a self-proclaimed introvert. I hate crowds, and love the comfort of my own home, but even for me, the lockdown has been turning into such a nuisance. I've been so paranoid that I don't even want to do my morning jogs at the nearby park. Being on lock-down feels a lot like grief, and the best way to handle grief is to go through it. As we all know the five stages of grief; denial, anger, bargaining, depression and acceptance. I've decided to put together this list to aid you on your own stage.
1. Netflix party
If you miss hanging out and watching movies with friends try Netflix party! It's a google chrome plug-in that lets you watch with your friends in sync. It even provides a chat box on the left of your screen so you can discuss about the movie while its playing.
2. Follow along a Bob Ross Tutorial
"This is your world. You’re the creator. Find freedom on this canvas. Believe, that you can do it, ‘Cuz you can do it. You can do it."Wise words from a wise man. My main man Bob has been a popular meme for the past year, but his tutorials are quite informational and they're FREE. He has a YouTube channel of his own.
3. Create a skincare routine
If you haven't gotten into the habit of having a skincare routine, the best time is now. It doesn't necessarily have to be the 10-step Korean skincare routine, but definitely consider having a good, cleanser, toner, moisturizer, and most importantly sunscreen, in your kit!
4. Sort out your documents
I know you have a pile of important documents you haven't gone through. This is the perfect time to go through this and start organizing them! Locate those birth, marriage certificates. Tax documents end employment documents.You don't have to get yourself a file cabinet. I have invested myself in a good expanding folder to put all my files. They come with labels too!
5. Update your CV
Some people don't even bother to update their CV thinking being employed means not having to do so, but here are some of the reasons why you should:
- You decide to do side-jobs, and freelances work
- Recruiters might be looking and they might run across your LinkedIn Profile
- Promotion at work! if there is a senior position opening, you'll have it ready for application
- Find areas for self improvement!
- Just in case!
6. Update your Portfolio
I'm talking to creatives that haven't been compiling their body of work. The same reasons why one should update your CV, it is important that you update your portfolio as well.
7. Update your professional social media accounts
For business owners, creatives, digital creators, and even service based workers. You should include updating your professional social media accounts, or consider branching out to one. In order for you to be exposed you need to market yourself, and social media is a contender in getting yourself clients.
8. Wash your makeup brushes
I'm calling you out! Wash those makeup brushes! You hear!
9. Make a life goal list
When was the last time you actually sat down and write down you life goals. I've heard people that haven't done it since their senior year in high school. Planning your life and re-focusing is something more serious than a counselor's exercise. Knowing your "why" helps you realign where you are and where you want to be.
10. Set up a new budget
Everyday is the day to have handle on your expenses. Start being more familiar with finances. I suggest starting with the 80/20 rule. 80% for expenses 20% straight to savings.
11. Start a Journal
With social media being the number one outlet for people to air out their dirty laundry. I highly suggest taking up journaling. The moment I started taking journaling seriously the more in tune I am with who I am and what I am capable of. It opens a new world of self understanding.
12. Do a 30 day fitness challenge
There is a plethora of 30 day fitness videos on the YouTube. Make it a goal to finish. Document it on social media or share it with family and friends to keep yourself accountable. Have them join in completing the challenge as well!
13. Educate yourself
You are never too busy! I personally have enrolled myself in 2 online classes and I've recently learned a new software, Adobe Illustrator.Check out courses from Edx, Coursera, and Udemy.
14. Rearrange your furniture
I grew up my parents knowing how much I am fond of rearranging the furniture in my room. It gives you a fresh perspective, making it easier to breathe in. Trust me! You'll feel brand new.
15. Start Gardening
It is almost spring, and now is the perfect time to start germinating seeds for fruit bearing plants. I myself have a strawberry plant that already has 5 fruits and I'm so excited to harvest them when spring comes.
16. Learn how to code
How behind are you in today's times. Simple coding is actually being taught in high school and my fellow millennials–like a new language being introduced–it's something that you should let yourself become somewhat familiar with. Times are changing and the digital world is becoming more pronounced. Again check out courses at Udemy.
17. Learn a new Language
I know you've been putting off learning French, Spanish, Mandarin, or Japanese for some time now. I learned Spanish in high school and I've learned some basic French, Mandarin and Japanese through audio learning. I highly recommend trying out Pimsleur Its foolproof! It's free for the first month!
18. Read books
Read those books that are dusting off on your bookshelf that you've been "meaning" to read.If you've been in the blog recently. I've decided to go on this venture of reading classic literature and created a not-required-reading list that I intend to finish this year. Check it out HERE!
19. Learn how to crochet or knit
I personally learned how to crochet and knit through YouTube University. It's an easy hobby to do! You can finally pretend you're Muriel from courage the cowardly dog.
20. Learn a new instrument
If you're a beginner, try picking a ukulele. Learn how to play somewhere over the rainbow! If you're a frustrated pianist like me, try branching out to other genres like familiarizing yourself with blues, and jazz scales.
21. Start a blog
You have opinions? Share them! Document your experiences and share your ideas! People tend to hoard information for themselves and that won't be of any help to anyone! Let's grow together!
22. Create a music playlist on Spotify
Finally organize your favorite songs and compile them on Spotify. Create a different playlist for different occasions; morning routine, productivity, workout playlist, night time down time, feeling sentimental, and many more.
23. Watch Documentaries on YouTube
I haven't list down the favorites I've personally seen, but you can definitely find some really good documentaries on YouTube. Here's a link of a list of good ones.
24. Listen to a new Podcast
What's the most millennial thing to do? Listening to Podcasts. There are numerous genres online! Try checking out Spotify's selection. For a lighthearted listen check out a rising podcast by a colleague from university.
Twenty-something best friends spilling the tea, rambling about anything and everything under the sun, or even below the ground, because we tend to overthink everything.Anxiety therapy suggests to let it all out.... but maybe not into the world?
25. Try out meditating
If you're feeling anxiety towards the whole situation, sometimes you just have to let go and breathe. It's a worrisome time, and something that could help you is taking a step back meditate, then assess the situation. Try out Headspace! It's a meditation app with calming exercises. The user interface is easy to understand and adorable too
26. De-clutter and sort out your closet
Bring out the Marie Kondo in you and start going through your closet. Which one sparks joy? Then get rid of the rest.
27. Karaoke
Get yourself one of those Bluetooth mics and sing your heart out. There are a lot of Karaoke instrumental selections on YouTube. Sing like no one is watching. Let out all your stress and inhibitions!
28. Learn how to Bake
Stop grabbing those cookies from the box. Actually try to make something from scratch. You might surprise yourself! Come bake cookies with me in this VLOG
29. Paint by numbers
Want to forget the world and just be in your own space? Try out Paint by numbers. You're never too old to color within the lines. Its absolutely therapeutic.
30. Do nothing
Cut yourself some slack! If you are currently work remotely, or freelance, being stuck at home can take a toll on you. Don't be too hard on yourself and just enjoy the day! No checklist of any sort. Play it by ear, and rest your mindHope everyone is doing okay! Please keep safe, stay at home, wash your hands, and let's all flatten the curve together!
