Introverts, in a time of social distancing, it is people like us, in our little spheres of quiet, who must share our hobbies with the rest of the world. So, for those who can’t participate in sports right now, or visit the pub with friends, or go to your weekly board game meetups, or even work… Why not stay busy with a new hobby? Here’s a list of a few fun things you could try.
Learn something new
Como Estas?
Have you been wanting to learn a new language? Maybe this is your opportunity to start! I’ve found Memrise to be a useful app. Duolingo is okay, but limited, and there are plenty of podcasts and resources available on YouTube.
Screen time.
Are you looking to learn more about computers? Why not learn a new software? There are tons of tutorials online, for free. You could learn how to use Photoshop, or how to code, or even how to build a website. Maybe take this time to build your own website and start a blog or a photography portfolio.
Take up a skill
There are so many things you can learn solo. Here are a few I would suggest.
Try an instrument.
If you love music, perhaps it’s time to pick up a new instrument (or an old one) and hone those skills. Why not try an inexpensive instrument, like the ukulele or harmonica? (You might still be able to order such things online, delivered to your door). Just please, if you’re my next-door neighbour, don’t try the bagpipes. I beg of you.
Hookers, needlers and knitters.
Try crocheting, knitting, sewing or needlework. It’s a great opportunity to make things for yourself. Plus, when you get better at it, you can stop buying people birthday gifts. Who says your friends don’t want 20 scarves from you?
Brush up on your creativity.
Painting or illustration can be done in so many forms. Paint on canvas, try painting miniatures or statuettes, or paint your whole house! It might need the renovation.
Read a book.
Seriously, human beings can only subsist on Netflix for so long. There are trillions of books in the universe. You’re bound to find one you’ll like (get it? Bound? Like a book? Okay, I’ll stop).
Write something.
You can journal, write a story or epic adventure, or maybe a poem. It’s a great creative outlet for those stuck at home.
Listen to something.
It’s good to feel connected to the world, and I’ve found one of the best ways is to listen to podcasts. A lot of podcast groups also have community discussions.
At-home exercises.
Yoga, push-ups, or jogging on the spot. Don’t forget your exercise, and don’t forget to pop outside one-in-a-while for that much-needed fresh air.
Baking or cooking.
Now is the time to hone those skills. If you’ve mastered grilled cheese and boxed cake mixes, why not expand your horizons with a bit of spice? For now, the supermarkets are still stocked!
Clean your house.
Let’s be honest. None of us want to do it, but now that you’re stuck at home for most hours of the day, don’t pretend the dust bunnies aren’t getting to you.
Being Social at Home
There are ways to still be “social” while stuck at home.
Play RPGs Online.
There are tons of online groups that you can join, and play RPGs like Dungeons & Dragons online with other people. If you’re new to this world, there’s a lot you can learn! Come on, being a geek isn’t so bad.
Video Games.
Despite what your mother always thinks, video games can be social (and not just Fortnite, people). Connect to 5G and join an online community.
Online Classes.
The internet is a wonderful place. You can always hone your skills, while also joining an online group of like-minded people.
In this time of uncertainty, where many of us are afraid of financial struggles, bills, jobs, children, family, and loneliness, it’s good to remember to be kind to each other. With so many people online, and so many in the world panicking, let’s try to stay positive and help each other. I believe this planet has the opportunity now to really show our humanity.