If you’ve been following the news or have subscribed to emails from any business ever- or so it feels – you’re sure to know about the current spread of COVID-19 (informally aka coronavirus) and the recommended measures to contain the spread of the virus. We’re spending the next few weeks staying in and “social distancing” and we’ve got a lot planned to make the most of it!
But first, a word.
COVID-19 is real. It’s here. And it is going to have an impact. A serious one. While the symptoms may be mild for most young and healthy people, we need to remember that this is so much bigger than just ourselves. Think about the sweet elderly couple down the street who fear this may be the end. Or your friend who you never realized is immunocompromised. Or the nurse or doctor you know who is working around the clock during this uncertain time.
Any blasé attitude we have towards mitigating the spread of this disease because it may not impact you, doesn’t look at the whole picture. It may not impact you – but it sure does impact them. So please, it may seem like overreacting to you, but take all the necessary measures to help mitigate the spread of this disease. It means the world to someone else.
We’re practicing “social distancing” during this uncertain time. Social distancing is not a snow day. it’s not a time to get with friends and enjoy time away from school or work.
Social distancing means we’re avoiding any unnecessary public or social activities. So no St. Patty’s day celebration, working from home, and limiting my favorite Target runs. The idea behind social distancing is that if we can slow and reduce the number of people we come into contact with, we slow the spread of disease.
This allows sick people to recover, hospitals and medical resources to replenish, and for us to avoid being in a state of crisis and requiring more stringent quarantine measures. If you’re curious, the Washington Post has a great simulation illustrating how moderate social distancing can help us keep this from turning into a full blown crisis.
So how are we staying sane while limiting contact with other human beings? Here’s what’s the docket for the next few weeks.
1// Catch up on some reading.
Have a favorite blog (like this one of course) that you’ve been meaning to read? I created a bookmark folder with all my favorites so I can open them up at once and do some light reading. It’s a great way to get inspired and caught up with all the things you want to do.
2// Do some spring cleaning.
What better time to disinfect than now? Break out the Clorox wipes and the duster and go to town. Don’t forget to clean often forgotten items like your cell phone, keys, and wallet / purse!
3// File all the paperwork.
BORING, I know. But this is one of those tasks that we procrastinate for months on end when it really only take 15-20 minutes of your time. KNOCK IT OUT!
4// Edit your closet.
My favorite thing to do every month is go through and purge my closet. I’ve been toying with having an essentials only wardrobe (which I’m close but not 100% there yet!) where I keep only staple pieces. Need some inspiration? Check out Caroline Joy’s website – Unfacy!
5// Redecorate the house.
Missing your usual Target run? Me too. Instead of shopping at the store, edit and shop your home. Gather all your decor and home goods and sort into piles: Love this always, Love but bored of, and donate. Then put the “love but bored of” pile somewhere where you won’t see it. Pull it out in one or two months and swap out with existing items to redecorate without spending a dime!
Still love to shop? Try online shopping – lots of retailers now how virtual reality setups that allow you to see new items in your current space.
6// Learn something new.
Take a class! You can find hundreds of classes *for free* online. Want to learn to make craft cocktails? Or perhaps bake bread? Now is the time. It’s a great way to learn a new skill when you’d typically be at the bar.
7// Be Social. Just not in person.
Just because you’re social distancing doesn’t mean you have to go live under a rock. Keep in touch with friends by hosting a virtual game night, where everyone hopes on Skype or FaceTime and can play games like charades or Pictionary.
