Everyone fervently hoped that the New Year would bring things back to normal. Unfortunately, the new COVID-19 strain has tipped most countries back to lockdown. What’s more, many economists have predicted that every day in lockdown will cost nearly £400 million.
Although there is a glimpse of hope as the numbers of infections dwindle, governments are still warning that the lockdown restrictions will not be removed anytime soon.
Here are six tips on how to make the most of this extended lockdown:
1. Focus on future enjoyment
What got you through the first lockdown? If you’re like most people, you most likely thought of life after lockdown. Mental time-travel is a simple, yet powerful skill. Fast-forward and imagine all the good things you will do after the lockdown before you get out of bed.
It would be also worthwhile to list some of the positive affirmations to help you start your day on a positive note.
2. Change your home scenery
When the pandemic started back in March 2020 and people had to work from home, you most likely loved your home then but the enthusiasm has slowly disappeared. To fall back in love with your home, consider making some changes like sorting your children’s bedroom, rearranging the furniture, or even building new furniture for other rooms.
There is no wrong or right way to improving your home. However, you need to consider the size of your property, your budget, and your priorities. Keep in mind that you shouldn’t be overspending now to change the aesthetics.
3. Don’t spend most of your time behind the screen
Most parts of our lives have changed quickly and shifted to the digital space, including school, work, and socializing. However, finding a balance is vital.
According to Rewire, you should think of a media diet as you think about your diet. This means that you should check what you’re consuming in terms of screens. And, similar to how you don’t like to often include some things in your diet, think about the content you consume online and the context.
Screens can be used appropriately in some cases; for instance, you can face-time with your loved ones at the dinner table. This way, your screen won’t distract you from having your meal, but it will become part of it.
Additionally, during the lockdown, the isolation can be overwhelming and you need to connect with your friends and family. Therefore, you can schedule regular video calls with them to alleviate feelings of loneliness. What’s more, you can still use your screen to place prescription delivery to your doorstep.
4. Learn ways you can occasionally get out of your house safely
Even when you have a home that is pleasing to the eye, you will still need to get out once in a while. However, remember that there are restrictions and regulations that you have to respect. Still, because your life will be limited for the next few months, spending a few minutes outside can have a positive impact on your wellbeing.
Although lockdown has its share of negative outcomes, there are some positives. You can appreciate enjoying a hot cup of coffee on the beach or a walk through the park as you go to buy some groceries. You can also do some indoor workouts to make you feel healthier and fitter.
5. Finish up your projects
Before the pandemic, your social calendar would have prevented or delayed you from completing your to-do list, but now is the time to tackle them.
Start by making a list of indoor projects that you had put off, like remodelling your home and purging cabinets, among others. There is satisfaction and pride that comes from accomplishing tasks and this can help to spark your creativity.
Therefore, complete those projects that you have always put on hold and find new projects that will encourage you to discover your passions.
6. Remember why we’re on lockdown
Being cooped up at home is frustrating, especially if the period lasts longer than you anticipated. However, the number of people who have succumbed has skyrocketed, and the only way you can help overcome this difficult time is by following the set guidelines and regulations.
By working together, you can help us to get back to normality sooner. For this reason, you should keep the necessary precautions. From avoiding crowded places to carrying antibacterial gels, this can go a long way to protecting you and the people around you.
Bottom Line
Although lockdown has several negative repercussions, it has some positives. Therefore, as you approach the one-year mark and yearn more for normalcy to return, it’s essential that you learn new ways to survive during this period.
Leave a Reply