Ways to beat the boredom
With summer on the horizon and the skies finally clearing, it is becoming increasingly difficult to keep yourself entertained indoors.
The temptation to get outside with friends or family circles your mind constantly.
So I have compiled a list of some of the things I, and undoubtedly many other young people, have been doing to distract ourselves.
EXERCISE: The rise in people going for runs and bike rides or even working out at home has rocketed in the past two months, almost in line with the virus itself. Not only is it a great way to de-stress but it simultaneously improves both your physical and mental health. Even a walk around the block is much better than staying inside all day – as long as you keep your distance. LEARN A NEW SKILL: One of the best ways to use this time in lockdown is to take up a new skill or two. Not only can it be a rewarding experience, but the process is lengthy, which in turn passes time. Who knows, lockdown could end up producing the next wave of superstar chefs and musicians. SOCIALISE SENSIBLY: For the majority of young people, communicating electronically is second nature. What may not be second nature, however, is how often to communicate. Regular contact with people outside of your household is important for keeping a positive mindset.
WATCH FILMS AND TV: There are many ways of accessing entertainment before even turning on the TV. Netflix, Amazon Prime and most recently Disney+ are just a few of many subscription services that offer hours of content. Even platforms that do not require payments, such as YouTube, still have a huge amount of varied content.
READING: Not only does it pass the time but regular reading is scientifically proven to increase brain power.
LISTEN TO MUSIC: You can listen to music at any time – during exercise, before you go to sleep, when you are going to the shops, the list is endless. You may discover new songs or artists.
PLAYING GAMES: Video games, board games, even playing sports outside still counts. In the space of a day you can go from winning a game of FIFA, to losing in Monopoly after landing on Mayfair, then go outside and play basketball in your garden. The biggest pro of playing games is the combination of socialising and entertainment into one. CHORES: Helping out with a few small jobs around the house not only fills the gap of a very absent routine but also supports parents and carers.
SCHOOLWORK: Even an hour or two a day still gives you an aim and a sense of accomplishment. If you are transitioning between year groups or you have big exams in the next academic year, it is important not to let the momentum drop.
STAY POSITIVE: It is hard to stay positive when you are surrounded by uncertainty. But it is crucial not to let the negativity overcome you. This will end at some point, it is just a matter of when.