We’re all facing a challenging time at the moment, and the uncertainty is likely to be making people feel a bit anxious or uneasy. So it’s vital to remember that, provided we step up and support each other, we can and will get through this.
As of Monday 23rd, the UK government have introduced strict measures to reduce the spread of Coronavirus. These include only leaving the house to exercise once a day, travel to and from work where “absolutely necessary”, shop for essential items or fulfil any medical or care needs.
As we adjust to this new way of living, it’s never been more important to take care of ourselves and those around us. The best thing we can do is stay positive and introduce a healthy routine into our days.
To get you started, here are ten positive actions you can take while self-isolating:
1. Be kind
There’s been a lot of this rhetoric circulating of recent months, but now we need to ramp up our efforts more than ever. Check on your loved ones, friends and neighbours. Do you know anyone that could do with a friendly voice to chat to, or a helping hand running errands, or home-schooling children?
Also, be kind to yourself! Naturally, you will be feeling overwhelmed and a little afraid. Make sure to distance yourself from social media and the news every once in a while. Take time to log off and focus on what’s important to you. And, if you’re in need, it’s okay to ask for help. We all need to take turns lifting each other up.
2. Support the community
Look out for community projects that you can help with, or if you see a gap where people might need support. Don’t forget to show small businesses some support. Treat yourself to a takeaway, buy a gift card for later or shop online. Consider donating to any charities in your local area as they too will need support to help them continue carrying out their vital work.
3. Get creative
Use your extra time productively by reconnecting with an old hobby or learning a new skill. Write a story or some poetry, try painting or drawing, or learn a new instrument. Challenge yourself to try something new. Not only will this keep you entertained, but it will be a healthy distraction from the news.
4. Get organised
You know what they say…a tidy house = a tidy mind. To help feel comfortable in your surroundings, why not spruce up your house? Are there any odd jobs that you have put off or forgotten about? Well, now is the perfect time to have a clear out, tidy and get organised.
5. Spread positivity
In a sea of panic and noise, it’s important to be calm and look for the positives. The current situation is very much out of our control, but what we can control is how we make ourselves and others feel. If you see a funny video or inspirational post then share it with others, it could be the pick-me-up they need.
6. Exercise
Make sure to get out of the house every once in a while and introduce some home workouts to your daily routine. Even just a walk around the garden or your block to help clear your head will give you an extra boost.
If you can’t get out, then with the wonders of technology there are so many online videos available on youtube you can have your own personal trainer or yoga instructor in your living room.
7. Catch up on reading/watching
Start working your way through your watchlist or reading list. If you have Netflix, then you can take advantage of the Netflix Party feature. This lets you watch things in complete synchronisation with loved ones who may be miles away from you. Or, go back to that pile of books that you’ve been wanting to get through, have a gander for a new podcast to get stuck into, or even set up a virtual book club.
8. Plant some flowers
Well, we don’t know about you, but this sunshine is a very welcome silver lining at a time like this. It’s important to get as much natural sunlight and fresh air as you can. It’s also the perfect time to start planting some flowers in your garden, then you can sit back and watch them bloom. We will have a nation of households with gardens pruned to perfection by the end of this pandemic.
9. Get quizzing!
If you are anything like the Balance team, then you will love a quiz. Unfortunately, we have had to put on hold the charity quiz night we were planning to host in April, but that doesn’t mean to say the fun stops there. Local pubs are still hosting their weekly quiz nights, just via video link. So, get yourself online, and find a quiz to take part in.
10. Learn something new
What about a language? The travel restrictions have only fuelled our travel plans and made our bucket lists even longer. Why not learn a bit of the local lingo for your first trip after this is all over.
If languages are not your thing, then why not learn to meditate, play chess, or cook a new recipe? There are so many online tutorials out there; the possibilities are endless.
We hope this has provided you with a little bit of inspiration for your down-time at home. It’s important to keep busy and motivated during these unsettling times.
If you would like to discuss anything at all, financial planning or otherwise, please get in touch and speak to one of our financial planners.