Can’t say I’ve ever lived through a pandemic, so this is a weird milestone for me for sure. When I was younger, I was always an introvert, but as life happened and experiences happened, I made a u-turn and would definitely describe myself as an extrovert.
So, suffice it to say, social distancing and being quarantined is HARD. Not having anywhere to go, or people to hang out with, just being with me, myself and I. I don’t like it, but it’s a good challenge and I’ve never been one to say “no” to a good challenge.
With that said, I’ve rounded up a few things you can do at home to stay busy as well as some good things to be mindful of in order to fight depression and anxiety.
Home/DIY Projects
A fellow blogger has really been a huge proponent of DIY projects! This is a perfect time to build something, try your hand at a new project, paint that room that’s been needing it, or simply rearrange your living space (this is always fun)! Check out Apartment Therapy for some fun tips on rearranging for small apartments.
Read a Book
I’ve gotta be honest. I have not read a legit book in years. Typing that makes me feel ashamed, but I’ve never been much of a reader. But, with having to stay inside for the unforeseeable future, reading is looking more and more desirable. Pick up a classic, a mystery, an autobiography or a personal development book. Further your knowledge and leave that TV off.
(I’m thinking about reading Les Miserables. I’m a huge fan of the story line, the movie and the stage production, but haven’t yet read the book).
Organize Things
I love organization, and there are times when I’ll get into these moods where all I want to do is organize everything. I start in one area and it spreads! I’m planning on going through my closet and really purging. I over-buy and don’t wear probably 50% of what I buy on a regular basis. Check out HGTV’s article on organizing a small apartment.
Clean Out the Fridge (Amongst Other Things)
I have NOT done this yet, but this would be a prime time to clean the fridge. Not just clean out expired food, but just clean the fridge itself! You’ve got a ton of disinfectant now, so use some of it and make that refrigerator squeaky clean.
This is also a good time to clean things that may not normally be on your regular to-do list. Here are some items that may easily be overlooked:
- Ceiling fan blades
- Top of fridge
- Baseboards
- Inside of oven
- TV remotes
- Walls (this doesn’t come naturally, but walls get dirty!)
- Phone – wipe with Clorox or spray with Lysol
- Under couch cushions
- Windowsills and windows themselves
- Inside microwave
- Purse – spray this down with Lysol! We put our purses down on nasty surfaces daily.
- Check this site out for more items!
Trust Jesus
This is one of the most important–if not THE most important–thing we can do now. There is so much uncertainty in life, and we all don’t do well with the unknown. But there is something–someone–who is for sure. Jesus is THE only thing that is CERTAIN. If stores close, if we have our electricity shut off, if there is chaos in the streets, Jesus is certain and unchangeable. And if we have a relationship with Him, then it is well with our souls, no matter what happens here on earth.
Feel free to ask me any questions about Christianity in general or my faith specifically. Also, Grace to You has some great resources for those seeking.
Let’s all be mindful during these trying times and really–really–think about others. Selfishness and greed can sneak in all too easily. But let’s really become a family during this time and love each other like Christ loves us.
XOXO,
Emma
