Let’s admit it; we’ve all thought about stuff that we wanted or even needed to do but we always end up putting it off because we “don’t have enough time”. 

Well, unfortunately, or fortunately, that excuse no longer applies. 

We’re in the middle of a lockdown and time is not as much a rare commodity as it is an available one. All the things we didn’t get around to before can be done if we start doing them right now and make the most of these last couple of weeks indoor. 

To that end, here are some ideas to get you started!

  • Clean and get organized

It could be that cupboard under your sink where you throw plastic bags and everything cleaning related (you know you have one) or it could be your own closet. Start with whatever brings you the most peace of mind and will contribute greatly to your productivity at the same time. 

It could even be all the documents that you need to keep but can’t ever seem to find quickly or, sometimes, at all. Knowing where everything is and how to get to it quickly saves you time as well as energy. The little things that stress you out in your day to day life can add up and the coming months will be challenging enough without them.

  • Start working out

We’ve said this before and we’ll probably keep saying it, but, if you haven’t started a regular work out routine already, you need to do it, like, yesterday. Not that reasons are needed, but here are a few in case you’re lacking some resolve. It contributes to higher self-confidence, the elimination of stress, and physical fitness. Lastly, it also increases your immunity, which we could all use during a pandemic, right?

Honestly, if you don’t start working out now then you were never too busy for it. #sorrybutnotsorry

  • Break a bad habit

This is an obvious one. We’re in lockdown. Many of the vices we indulge in are not regularly available. Whether it’s drinking way too many carbonated drinks or indulging in too many carbs or alcohol or smoking, this is the time to cut down or quit altogether since you’re so much more in control of your surroundings and other factors. Once you get a handle on it, it’ll be much easier to maintain even when the lockdown ends and you go back to our regular routine. You’ll be healthier and happier for it… maybe even richer. 

  • Simplify your life

As a famous detective once said, “Amazing how fire exposes our priorities.”

It takes a crisis for people to realize what truly matters to them. The word, ‘essentials’ has taken on new meaning in this lockdown. Obviously, there’s nothing wrong with a few creature comforts but the past few weeks have made me wonder whether life really needs so many moving parts. 

Extra gadgets you don’t use, clothes you don’t wear or memberships in things that you never benefit from, just trim out the excess. Maintaining these things can take up too much space in your head while removing them altogether makes little to no difference at all. 

  • Gain a new skill-set

This is a biggie. We all know what kind of impact COVID-19 has had on the economies of countries all around the world, including our own. Many people have lost their jobs, many more people have taken cuts in their salaries and everyone is a little anxious about how to move forward from here. 

No matter what your current employment situation may be, you will undoubtedly benefit from upskilling. There are multiple ed-tech companies offering discounts on incredibly relevant courses right now so take advantage of it and breathe a little easier. It’s a worthwhile investment. 

  • Prepare for next time

You know when you used to go shopping with your mom when you were younger and she’d always choose the biggest packets of rice and atta and you just didn’t understand why? Well, guess who didn’t run out of groceries during this lockdown? 

Having a generally well-stocked pantry (not hoarding) will mean that you won’t feel the need to panic buy since you already have the essentials. And it’s not just about groceries. Think about the things that made you anxious or feel unprepared, like medicines at home, insurance, your finances, an emergency fund, etc. 

The point is, give thought and take action so you’re not caught off guard again. Hope for the best, but prepare for the unexpected.