In light of the many canceled events, closed gathering spaces, and the need to socially distance in order to keep those we love safer, we’re all staring down some unexpected spare time. I decided to share some of what I might do in the coming weeks and maybe spark some ideas for you, too!
Tackle Some Long-Delayed “Ugh” Tasks
I have a lot of things I keep putting off because they just make me think “ugh” and I have sorted them into the “not critical” pile so they tend to be perpetually pushed aside. This is an opportunity to look at ways I can tackle those tasks. I need to sort some paperwork, and shred (or set aside for shredding) old papers; I have websites that desperately need some back end and content attention, and I have some personal filing that needs to be done. Some of these can even be split up into tasks I can do while watching movies or listening to podcasts.
Brainstorming
I’ve been considering starting another podcast but I want to be sure I have enough potential content. To do that, ideally I need to have 100 possible episode ideas brainstormed. It’s also a great opportunity to brainstorm some content for blogs or Facebook pages. Having brainstorm files on hand is great for those low-energy weeks when nothing seems to leap out as being important, especially as some topics won’t be tied to current events or seasons.
Writing and Creating
There are mountains of things I want to write about, or have already started but need to be finished. My sewing machine needs to be adjusted before I can use it again but there are still projects I could tackle by hand stitching or using my serger. I also have a bunch of costuming projects in the queue and a sizeable yarn stash for knitting.
Reading and Relaxing
I also acknowledge that there is no use in trying to be productive with all of my time. I plan to use some time to get some reading done (I have a small mountain of books on hand), watch movies, binge shows, and wander around the internet. These are all important ways to reduce my stress and anxiety which are being challenged by the constant change this crisis has precipitated.
And yes, the title of this post is a nod to one of my all-time favourite episodes of The Twilight Zone called “Time Enough at Last” although that episode had a rather disappointing ending. You can read the story on which it was based online, at Project Gutenberg.
