The number of people infected with the coronavirus is continuously rising. As of writing, there are 158 countries already affected by the virus, and countermeasures were already provided to its citizens to contain the spreading of the virus. If not lockdown, governments are declaring quarantine. Schools are out, gatherings are canceled (even weddings), some businesses are forced to close, and workers are advised to work at home. Since we don’t know how long until this pandemic ends, it is important to follow the guidelines.
People are always told to stay at home. It has become a constant reminder to everyone all over the world that if you don’t have anything important to do outside, then stay home. Everyone stock up goods, toilet papers, and whatnots in preparation for the lockdown or quarantine. However, what we forgot to prepare is how we spend 24/7 of our time staying at home.
Things to do when staying at home
For people who are used to the hustle and bustle, staying at home is such a challenging thing to do. Here are some tips on how you can make your quarantine worthwhile.
1.Declutter
Now that we are mandated to stay home as much as possible, we lost the excuse of not cleaning our homes because of busy schedules. Make use of your free time by going over the things you are no longer using and sort it out. If it’s still in good condition, you can do a good deed and donate it to the needy.
2. Read
If there are still books left unread in your shelf or your kindle (like me), now is the perfect time to go over it without disturbance. If you wanted to go to different places and meet different people without going outside, you can do it by reading. Get away from the stress caused by the virus and let yourself immerse into the beauty of the world that can be found in books.
3. Binge-watch your favorite series/movie
Are you one of those individuals who are so busy even relaxing is a luxury? Forget about it now. Let yourself loose and catch up on the series you have no idea exist.
4. Be creative
Staying at home 24/7 is probably the hardest for parents. Kids easily get bored and when they get bored, it’s mayhem. Parents need to be creative especially at this time. Design plays that are not only fun but also educational. This is also the perfect time where you can strengthen your bond with your kids. Instead of anticipating the whole quarantine period would be dull and boring, do something that can make it memorable instead.
5. Designate chores
It may be important to let your kids busy with activities that can burn down their energy. However, make this time to train them in doing chores. You can assign easy tasks they can do every day.
6. Be informed all the time
You might be having fun with your stay at home status but don’t forget to make yourself informed about the latest developments. Watch any news program or read it from your computer. It is always important to be well informed especially in dealing with this pandemic. Always remember, there is power in knowledge.
7. Reconnect
Old people are more vulnerable to the virus. To prevent the possibility of contagion, make use of the technology, and do video calling instead of visiting them. Also, it won’t hurt to check on old friends you haven’t been in contact with for some time. Who knows, you probably will be making their day by reconnecting with them.
The mandate to stay at home may last for weeks or months. It doesn’t mean you will have to be unproductive during that period, though. Plot your activities right and schedule them properly. In the end this pandemic, you can’t just say you survive, but that you survive productively.