10 Productive Things to Do While Keeping Your Social Distance

Let’s all sit down and take a breather for a moment. As the coronavirus spreads and global mandates encourage us to maintain a healthy distance from one another, our everyday work and social activities are no longer an option. The world may seem like it’s shutting down, but I assure you it’s not! This lifestyle is only temporary, and we will get through it.

Many of you may be working from home because of office closures, and meetings or conferences might be canceled. If you are self-employed like I am or work in the service industry, your income is likely to be limited, and next month is going to be harder for us than usual. Don’t panic! Think about how you can take advantage of this extra time and do something productive that you have been putting off. Instead of trying to fight the hysteria, look for opportunities.

Find Ways to Supplement Your Income

Businesses and schools are temporarily closing, which means everyone is affected by the current situation in some way. Think about ways to bring in extra money while you aren’t working.

• Childcare—With schools closed, some parents will need childcare services while they are still having to go to work or working from home.
• Dog walking—Scheduled pet services are likely limited right now, so dog walking could be a great way to earn some extra cash.

Look for Investment Opportunities

The market is down, yes, but if you have extra funds, now is the time to plan your investments. As you are researching, pay attention to companies whose current position is based purely on market movements, as opposed to financial indicators. These will be the first to bounce back once things stabilize.

Get Those Steps In—Outside

Gyms may be closed, but that doesn’t mean you have to sit around the house like a bump on a log. You can go outside and still socially isolate yourself. Take a walk or go for a jog to stay active and get those steps in.

Make Travel Plans for the Future

No one wants to travel right now, but that won’t always be the case. Think about your future plans and capitalize on the great deals that are available. If you’re planning a trip for late summer or the holidays, now may be the time to book to get the most bang for your buck. Our neighbors just booked their honeymoon in the Caribbean and saved 60%!

Learn a New Language

Just because you cannot travel to foreign countries right now, doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare for when you can. Expand your mind and try to learn a new language while you have the time. Free apps like Duolingo or Babbel are great ways to start.

Spring Clean

‘Tis the season to clean, and guess what? Now you have the time to do so! Switch out your winter wardrobe for spring and gather clothes to donate or sell. You’ve probably bought a lot of food recently, so make sure your kitchen cabinets are clean and organized.

Check On an Elderly Loved One or Neighbor

Social distancing may be irritating, but think about how frightening it must be for those who are at risk and can’t leave the house. If you have an elderly family member or neighbor, this is a critical time to check on them. Ask if they need any groceries, medications, or supplies. Call first, though, so you can avoid unnecessary contact with them.

Take an Online Class

Now is the perfect time to learn a new skill or brush up on an old one. If you are unemployed or looking for a job, take advantage of the time to become certified in a skill that will make you stand out to recruiters. I will be launching my blogging course very soon, which focuses on how to work with brands and make money for your blog. 

Start a Home Project

As you sit at home with nowhere to go, you may notice that your walls need a new coat of paint. Now may be the time to install those shelves you were putting off, or maybe even redecorate. I, for one, have been painting to add some decor to our walls, and it’s not only helped to make our apartment look more beautiful, it’s also served as a fun creative outlet.

File Your Taxes

For some, this time of the year means a refund, but for others, it equates to a hefty tax bill. Whatever your financial situation, now is the perfect time to get your taxes done. Because we might be holed up for a few weeks, you can file them at home with Turbo Tax for free.

Remember: no matter how uncertain things may seem, we’ll come out of this! I assure you, in the not-so-distant future, we will look back at this time and be proud of ourselves for weathering the storm. Wouldn’t we be even prouder if we made some positive changes in the process?

Stay safe, calm, and fabulous,