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5 WAYS TO DEAL WITH BOREDOM DURING LOCKDOWN
It’s no longer news that this COVID-19 pandemic has held every human being on earth captive in their respective homes. Hence, boredom has become the order of the day since we no longer have the freedom to move around like we used to. Our once full scheduled lives seem like they don’t exist anymore. But then, how about looking at this sudden event as an opportunity to make the best use of this free time to just live in the moment. Of course, if you are someone who is used to being busy. One can understand that this is easier said than done. Either way, here are five ways to deal with boredom and make the best use of your time in this lockdown.
1) Engage in fun indoor activities
Fun isn’t always about going out; there are so many ways one can have fun right inside the house and prevent boredom. Checking out fun and even innovative content on social media platforms such as Instagram, youtube, likee, TikTok… This is a great way to entertain yourself when you are bored—playing indoor board games, video games, karaoke, watching movies, and reading a book. This can be a great way to pass the time; just explore all your options and pick the ones that interest you the most. You will definitely not be too bored during this lockdown if you are entertained.
2) Stay connected with family and friends
A lot of times people use work or being too busy as an excuse to not have time for family and friends. Well, the lockdown has brought that to a halt, so use this free time to bond better with family and friends. If your family and friends are far away, thankfully we have the technology. Consistently make an effort to get in touch with your family and friends that are far away. Make use of the vast number of social media/online chat platforms available. A good old fashioned phone call can go a long way in connecting with loved ones. So if you’ve ever felt like you haven’t been connecting so well with the people you care about, this is a great time to do that.
3) Learn a new skill
Another great way to deal with boredom during lockdown is to learn a new skill. The need to grow in different skill sets in this ever-evolving world of ours cannot be overemphasized. If you are someone who has been feeling like you need to develop yourself in certain areas. This is the best time to do so. Perhaps you have always wanted to learn how to cook, carry out DIY projects, learn a professional skill… There are numerous platforms online for you to learn how to do virtually anything. No matter what you can never stop learning. Check out online platforms like Coursera, Udemmy, skillshare… to take classes online. Some of these classes are even free! so make the best use of this time to learn new skills and get better in old ones. Don’t allow the lockdown boredom to become a hindrance to growth and development.
Check out our initial posts on why skills acquisition should be mandatory in Nigeria, How to: make simple Ankara notebook, How to: cover your bag with Ankara, How to Start an Online Shop in Nigeria.
4) Get to work on your To-do list
That to-do list you’ve had stuck in your note pads, calendar, schedule, sticky notes… For days, weeks, months, years even! The boredom in this lockdown is the best time to work on getting those things done. I’m sure you will agree that there is always a sense of fulfilment when you can tick things off your to-do list. On the off chance that performing these tasks will cause boredom too, you can choose not to do them. But honestly speaking, it is always best to get things done rather than allow it to pile up. Make every effort to reduce your workload this season.
5) Work on your health and fitness
This is so cliche! I know! Who wants to exercise when they barely get up early enough? As much as one may try to push maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle away. We can never ignore the fact that health is wealth. I know it’s hard keeping fit when it seems like eating is the most exciting part of your day.
When you don’t have anything to do, food is the first thing that comes to mind. But do not ignore the fact that we are in a pandemic, and if there’s ever any time to ensure that your health is in check, that time is now! Enough discipline is required to create a time table, download a home workout app if you can, use a smaller plate to eat to reduce your food portions if you can, eat clean and healthy, drink lots of water. Take every possible step necessary to ensure that you don’t come out of this pandemic looking and feeling unhealthy!
Finally, there’s also the option of just embracing the boredom. It’s not every time you get the opportunity to have nothing to do. One cannot deny the fact that this is a very difficult time we are in. But it is always best to stay positive and just accept the simplicity of things. So sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the free time you have.
How have you been spending your time in this lockdown? It’ll be great if you can share that with us. Please leave a comment and ask any questions if you have any that relates to this topic. Thanks and watch out for more amazing content on this site!
