When I lived in Houston and was trying to get the title to my car, a task I wish on no one, after the third DMV line, where I stood for hours I realized that I needed to be more prepared moving forward. I needed to dress in layers for the unpredictable and changing building temperature, water to stay hydrated, a snack to keep my energy and a book or something to do to occupy the time spent standing in line. You see I can't stand wasted time. I don't sit still well and relaxing is somewhat of a foreign concept to me. I remember one time my therapist said "Wait, until I have you sit and do nothing for 15 minutes." To which I responded "Do you know what I can do in 15 minutes?"
So anytime I'm presented with a situation out of my control where there is a possibility of unscheduled time I look at it like "What can I do during this window?" "How can I make this work for me." Essentially I've been planning for a quarantine my whole life.
However, this isn't the case for everyone. Maybe you've found yourself completely unprepared, going stir crazy and it's only been a few days - stop and think about what you can do that you've been wanting to do and have been putting off. Is there a show on Netflix you've been meaning to binge watch - I'm currently watching Workin' Moms as we just finished New Girl (I recommend both). Perhaps get a head start on some spring cleaning. Finally going to read that book sitting on your bedside table that's been collecting dust - I'm reading The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo (also recommend). Maybe you've always wanted to start a blog, stock up the freezer with meals, organize your pantry, learn how to knit, the list goes on. Whatever it is this is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of time you normally don't have to do one or more of those things you have found yourself constantly thinking of but never get to.
It's not always easy to make the best out of a bad situation but I find that making good use of my time is not only a good distraction but has a positive impact on the experience.
No matter what you find yourself doing during this pandemic wish you and your family safety, kindness, support and time well spent!
Always,
Dana
