Life doesn’t have to be dull as we keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. If you’re bored while self-isolating, read on for 17 things to do (that may make you feel productive) .
With just the right ideas and materials, you could find yourself enjoying all the time you’re spending at home.
While you’re socially distancing yourself, it’s the perfect opportunity to complete all the tasks you told yourself you would finish. There’s no better time to work on your goals and build healthy habits than when you’re at home by yourself.
If you’re bored at home and have no idea of what to do, here are 17 suggestions on things you can do in the comfort of your home.
1. Take an online class
How does one go about finding a new hobby? You don’t have to leave the house to find an instructor or a teacher, at least not anymore. Online classes can be found for anything and everything. From learning how to draw to learning a new language, these classes are able to impart valuable information to you. Some of the things you might be interested in:
- Video editing
- Photography
- Calligraphy
Here are some learning platforms that you might be interested in:
- http://www.skillshare.com (Free and Premium content)
- http://www.lynda.com (Membership based content)
Alternatively, many instructors have also started to conduct online classes on live streaming platforms that are completely free. So fret not if you don’t want to sign up for the classes.
2. Get Active and Workout
Who says you can only work out in the gym? While you’re at home and socially distancing yourself from others, what better opportunity to be working out and getting fit.
Even if you’ve not worked out in weeks, you can take baby steps when you’re getting back on to the path of fitness. With a variety of activities ranging from HIIT workouts to yoga, you’ll never run out of routines to get your body moving.
If you don’t know where to start, you can look for inspiration and routines on Pinterest. To ensure you’re getting your form right, you can also watch videos on Youtube.
You can check out Chloe Ting for 10 minute workouts or KKardio dance for modified K-POP dances!
3. Learn how to knit / crochet
While it may seem like something only old ladies do, knitting and crocheting can be a relaxing pastime for you too! All you need is a ball of yarn and a pair of knitting needles or a crochet hook. Knitting and crocheting doesn’t only end up in beanies and mittens. Living in Singapore, you’ll probably not need any of those accessories.
With a ball of yarn, you can start small with crafting phone sleeves, bookmarks and water bottle holders before jumping into bigger projects like tops and sweaters.
While it may seem intimidating to start, it’s best to learn about the basic techniques. I’d suggesting going on to Youtube to be able to see a demonstration of how it’s supposed to be done.
Crochet for Beginners | Knitting for Beginners
4. Learn how to sew
You probably already have the materials at home. All you need is a piece of fabric, a needle and some thread. Learning how to sew is a very useful skill to have.
You find a hole in your clothes, you’ll know how to mend it. A button falls out, you’ll be able to sew it back on. Your pants are too long, you’ll be able to hem them.
If you have an old shirt that you no longer want and some string, why not make a drawstring pouch? Or why not sew old t-shirts together to make a quilt? Whatever project it is, it will surely help to reduce textile wastage!
5. Learn to draw
Even if you don’t consider yourself an artist, drawing can be fun and therapeutic. As you drawing, you’re bringing your thoughts and imagination to life . Drawing broadens your understanding of the world around you as you analyse different objects. It also helps stimulate your hand, eye and brain coordination .
You can always start small and learn drawing simple shapes and items before adding details. It doesn’t matter if you find your drawings beautiful or not. As long as you have fun, it’s something worth doing.
6. Learn a new language
Knowing more than 1 language is definitely a useful skill. As Singaporeans, we already know 2 languages, so how about adding one more? You don’t even have to learn the language extensively, but maybe just enough to have a simple conversation. You’ll find this skill especially useful when you’re traveling.
One of the hardest parts about learning a new language is finding someone to practice it with. So why not turn to applications and online resources to help you out! While most applications such as Duolingo teach you how to read and write the language, applications like HiNative allow you to get in touch and communicate with a native speaker of that language.
7. Read a book
If your reading list is filled with titles, why not get started. Whether its a fiction book or maybe even a cookbook, you’re bound to learn something new once you start reading!
Don’t have the books at home? You can also opt to purchase and read a pdf version of it if it’s available online!. Alternatively, you can listen to audio books on sites like audiobooks.com .
8. Listen to podcasts
Prefer listening over reading? Why not tune in to some podcasts. You can find podcasts talking about anything and everything as people share their opinions on their focused topics. While you learn more about a topic you’re interested in, you’re also exposed to the other perspectives of people.
Spotify Podcasts | TED Podcasts
9. Watch movies and shows online
Here is where a subscription to a streaming platform will come in handy. Whenever boredom strikes, you can just search for a genre to watch and you’ll be served the top recommendations. Furthermore, there’s a variety of movies and shows to watch from different parts of the world that ou can explore.
10. Clean your home
With all that time on your hands, why not clean up your living space and declutter. Keeping your home clean is also better for your health. When you’re in a clean environment, you’re more likely to be in a better head space. Also, just imagine the satisfaction of organising your belongings.
11. Reorganise your closet
If spring cleaning your whole house seems intimidating, why not tackle your wardrobe first. I’m sure you have way too many articles of clothing so why not start by separating the clothes you can no longer fit into or wear. From there you can categorise them based on what occasion you would wear it out. Taking the time to declutter your closet could save you time in the morning. So keep what you love to wear and donate / recycle the others.
12. Do some online shopping
Indulge in some retail therapy. Especially after you’ve decluttered your home, you’ll know what are the things you own and what you don’t. From there, you’ll know what items you should be adding into your cart. Don’t limit your shopping to just clothes, you can also buy furniture and groceries all from the comfort of your home.
13. Start a journal
Keeping a journal might not sound like it would have an impact on your life but it might be the tool you need to organise your thoughts. As you write and reflect, you’ll be able to learn more about yourself and mature. Journaling can also help you plan for things you should do
14. Talk to your friends
Get in touch with friends that you aren’t close to anymore. Message them or call them and just have a chat about how they’re doing. You’ll most likely find yourself talking to them for hours without even realising it.
15. Play games on Instagram Story
You’ve probably seen a bunch of reposts of these on your Instagram feed. This or That, Would You Rather and even Bingo! Why not play some games using the templates to let your friends know you better. Let’s not forget the face filters that ask you to sing songs and draw shapes. These features on Instagram will surely keep you occupied and entertained.
You can also check out the game templates we have in our story highlights!
16. Attend a virtual museum tour
Experience a museum tour online and learn about artefacts and exhibitions. These tours are interactive and visually engaging, some even involving 360º cameras.
Singapore Philatelic Museum | British Museum Tour
17. Play a board game
When you’re bored at home, why not play a board game? All you need is your game of choice and a minimum of 2 players. Playing board games with your family is also a great way to bond and build memories. Not to mention, seeing all the crazy strategies used to win the game can be really entertaining!
As we grow, we are constantly learning and improving. There’s always something out there for you to try and explore as long as you put some energy to it. Spend some time with yourself and relax! Take this as an opportunity to find new hobbies and keep ourselves entertained as we stay safe in our homes
With these 17 activities, we hope that you’ll always have a solution when you’re bored! Let us know what you do when you’re bored in the comments!
====================
Writer: @furdoors
Lifeguide.sg 
Great post! I’ll share it on my page!
LikeLike