My thoughts and best wishes are with all of you affected by COVID-19. Stay safe and take care x

We’re all living in uncertain and scary times. Across the world, we’re embarking on social distancing. And with the UK and many other countries on lockdown at the moment, we’re all having to adapt to a complete new normal. One that involved very limited time outdoors or socialising.

It’s a strange time and we’re all reacting and coping in different ways. It’s often the small, previously ‘insignificant’ things that are getting us through our day. Sometimes, getting up and showered might be the biggest achievement. And that’s totally okay. I’m here for every single one of you. Let’s take this time to listen to ourselves, to tune in with our bodies. Take it easy and be kind on yourself.

There’s no pressure to become the next Mozart or become fluent in French but sometimes it’s nice to have a list of things to do in these slow moments. I’ve been jotting down my own ideas and thought: why not share them with you? So, switch off the news and dive into my list of things to do when staying at home.

Nothing

Yup, nothing

There’s no pressure to do anything at all. No need to ‘make the most of the global pandemic’ or fill your time doing endless activities. This is a stressful and strange time for everyone. Take it easy and look after number 1.

Business

File taxes

Yes, not the most thrilling. But a good task to while away an afternoon.

Take those tasks that are still lurking around your to do list

I’ve had ‘redesign opt in’ on my to do list for lord knows how long. It’s getting moved up the list and tackled head on during a quieter moment over the next few weeks.

Create an at home workspace

If you’ve read my blog of Top Tips to Work at Home, you’ll know how important it is to have a dedicated office space. Now’s the perfect time to set up a new space or breathe some new life into one that hasn’t changed over the years - like me.

Have a website revamp or launch your new one

A website for your business is like your digital shop front. If this is your first website, download my Squarespace Website Planner to get yourself up and running. And if it’s a refresh you’re after, try these top tips to optimise your home page.

Start building your email list

Your email list should probably be your biggest asset. I know it can be such an overwhelming task to begin with. Here’s some opt in ideas to get you started.

Create a digital product or course

Whether you’re usually an offline or online business, there’s probably a few things you can offer your audience online. Perhaps it’s a course for pilates beginners? Or maybe it’s a printable recipe eBook? Here’s 40 ideas to get your ideas flowing.

Update the portfolio

Does your portfolio need a spring clean? Take this time to add in your new projects that reflect your style. It’s also a good idea to think about removing those that don’t align with your look or values.

Automate the business

Automations are the cats pyjamas. Why? Because they can save you so. much. time. When things begin to settle back to normal, you’ll be thanking past-you for all the hard work put in now. If you’re looking for easy ways to automate your business, take a look at Zapier.

Take a course to learn a new skill

Pick one to complement your business or throw yourself into something completely new. I’ve been eyeing up a couple of NLP courses on Udemy.

For the mind

Read a book.

There’s so many fiction and non fiction books on my shelf. I’m like a magpie when it comes to new books and not enough time to read them as quickly as they come in. Currently reading: Lucy Sheridan’s The Comparison Cure.

Do a virtual tour of a Museum.

This one I have to credit to my client, Cosy Cottage Soap. Clara suggested visiting a museum from the comfort of your own sofa. Amazing!

Brush up on a language. Or just the basics.

When I was at school I learnt German. I loved the country and the language but I had to stop during my finals. I’ve downloaded Duolingo and begun working through the basics. I’d highly recommend the app - I’ve got my mum and friends on it too!

Start Birdwatching

We might not be able to enjoy nature in it’s full glory but I’ve been enjoying the simply pleasure of watching the birds from my window. It’s amazing how much joy can be found in the simple things when we’re forced to slow down.

Exercise

Here’s some of my favourite options at the moment:

1. Psycle are doing live Instagram trainings and then putting them on IGTV.

2. Queen of yoga for all, Yoga with Adriene has tonnes of videos on her YouTube channel.

3. Grab the kids and join in with Joe Wicks (The Body Coach) every morning at 9am.

Meditate

If you’ve never tried mediating before, now’s the perfect opportunity. I use use Insight Timer to guide me through. Try this Yoga Nidra training if you’re struggling to sleep. It’s been an absolute game changer for me when I’m feeling stressed or overwhelmed and my mind just won’t stop buzzing.

Make art

Get the paints out and let your creativity go. I’m trying to not put pressure on myself to produce a gallery-level piece. More like a child would: just going with the flow and playing around with paints and colour.

Take part in a virtual pub quiz

I LOVE a quiz. I remember my parents putting on a quiz at every birthday party growing up. Then I had a go at writing them during my university days. Lucy Sheridan has been doing one live on Instagram every Friday night, will you be joining me?

TO switch off

Have a pamper night

Yes, the whole shebang. Facemasks, footmasks, hairmasks - it’s all getting the treatments.

Video chat

Can’t socialise in person? Hop on a video chat to stay connected. I hate to admit it but I think I’m speaking to people more now than ever before.

Take a nap

Because why the heck not, eh?

Ready, steady, bake!

I might not be the next Bake Off winner, but I do love baking. I find it a great way to switch off my mind. So far: 2 sets of cookies and a cherry loaf cake. But if baking isn’t your thing, onto something better suited!

Cook up a storm.

Another that might not be for everyone. I’m going to be digging out some of my forgotten about recipes to give them a go. And I’m always on a mission to improve my home-made Thai curry.

Find new recipes

My recipes bookmark has surely trebled in size over the last couple of weeks. And I’m not stopping anytime soon.

Support your local takeaway/takeout

For those small independent restaurants and takeaways on the high street, this is a hugely difficult time. Not only can you get your hands on some delicious food but you’re also playing your part in keeping these small businesses afloat. Win-win.

Jigsaw time

Time works differently when working on a jigsaw. 5 minutes in jigsaw time is an hour in the real world. It’s super relaxing and great for taking your mind off things. Warning: can be incredibly distracting when attempting to get some work done.

Play a video game

Like Sims 4. They have 75% off at the moment. Don’t be surprised when you look at the clock and it’s 2am though.

Play a board game

From Monopoly to Battleships, there’s so many amazing board games that are probably already in your cupboard. Now, if you’re competitive this might not be the wisest choice as tensions can run high. Definitely not talking to myself here 🤥

This list wasn’t designed to be overwhelming. I’m definitely not planning on getting through this list. But it’s full of ideas that I can pick from depending on where my mood takes me.

What would you add to the list?

Stay safe x