2020 will go down in history as the year that was dominated by a Global Pandemic. Lets not beat around the bush, Covid-19 (or otherwise known as Coronavirus) is horrendous. It is the worst National and Global health crisis of our generation and I can only pray it will stay that way. At time of writing there have been over 4.6 million recorded cases and nearly 310,000 recorded deaths world wide. 236,711 of those cases and 33,998 deaths have occurred in the UK, although these numbers are expected to be much higher and will continue to grow every day. We are also on day 54 of Lockdown, and I am spending it alone.

Surviving Lockdown Alone

I’m going to take this opportunity to assure you this isn’t a “woe is me” tale. I have the easy job in this pandemic. My only duty is to stay at home and avoid leaving for anything other than essential reasons. I’m also able to work from home so am not experiencing any of the economic hardships many others in this country are facing. The world is currently in agreement about at least one thing, our key workers are and will always be recognised as the heroes in this crisis. In my family alone we have a carer, a medical secretary a nursery worker and a delivery driver who are all doing their best, along with millions of others, to keep this country running. And what would we do without them all? If one positive thing comes out of this, it is that we can all finally see who really keeps our country turning and funnily enough it’s not the millionaires and investment guys or even the majority of politicians. It’s those in our supermarkets, warehouses, pharmacies – I could go on and on. And of course our front line workers, our NHS heroes. Never before have we been united in showing our love and appreciation to our NHS and the dedicated staff who together work tirelessly to keep us and our loved ones safe and well. For that, I will be eternally grateful <3.

I have lived alone for 4 years now and for the most part I enjoy it. I have a large extended family which makes me lucky but also void of some peace and quiet growing up! I wouldn’t say I’m an introvert, I love being in social situations and besides, is there anything better then a night in the pub with your nearest and dearest?. On the flip side however I am equally thrilled with a Saturday night in front of the telly or reading a great book. So whilst I often get the tilt of the head and “Aren’t you lonely” reaction when I tell people I live alone, I can assure you I’m perfectly in my element. Which is why when Lockdown was hinted at, I didn’t decide to move in with family, like some friends of mine, but I chose to remain at home and depending on the day I vary from being glad I did to thinking it was the worst decision ever. Because 54 days without seeing friends and family is quite frankly pretty shit. So in keeping with this blogs theme, I have decided to document the things I have done to keep me busy and honestly…sane.

Video Calls are my new best friend

FaceTime,WhatsApp, House Party, Zoom – whatever your chosen platform, I feel like everyone is using them. Never before have quiz nights been so popular and animal filters been so used. Despite being in my twenties (just…) I’m not particularly technology savvy and can count on one hand the amount of times I’ve used a video call pre-pandemic. Now, however, it’s almost a daily occurrence. Truth be told I don’t think I’ve ever spoken to people more, especially my family. It’s as if as soon as the option of seeing each other was taken away we’ve never appreciated or relied on each other more. That’s one for the gratitude list once all of this is over.

I recommend: Friday night quiz night, Entertainment and TV is my jam, but prepare yourself for judgement over lack of geographical or war-time knowledge. Note to self: Must watch more general knowledge shows.

Reflected on career choices.

Okay so the middle of a pandemic is not the best time to staring looking for new job BUT if you’re finding yourself with more time on your hands there isn’t going to be a more convenient time for you to evaluate if you are content in the path you have either chosen or, like me, fallen in to. Life is short but the days are long and if you’re not happy in your current daily grind and are in a position where you can explore other options, do it. If you’re looking at 40 more years in a job that makes you miserable, change it.

I recommend: Having a once over of your CV/Personal statement. At the very least it’s good practice to keep this updated and you never know it might give you a wave of inspiration for where your talents might be better suited.

Became a baking/cooking expert

Okay, maybe a slight over-exaggeration. Basically, I learnt how to make a stir-fry and I baked banana bread. My cooking skill has gone from a 1.5/10 to a 2.5/10 at a push. I’m never going to be a Nigella but I have saved a ton on takeaways.

I recommend: Instagram for foodie inspo.

Started a workout regime

This one is actually true. I’ve started workouts on YouTube that I can do in my own living room. I’m getting noticeably fitter and saving money on the gym membership I previously had but never used. Win!

I recommend: Lucy Wyndham-Read 7 minute workouts on YouTube because most people can give at least 7 minutes a day to get your heart rate up. She also has a beginner and intermediate move at the same time which is a nice touch and you can go between the two.

Started a blog

This is one I’ve been thinking about for years and 2 posts in, I’m really enjoying it. It’s easy to put things off when life gets busy but it’s also really rewarding to put fear of looking silly aside to do something you’ve wanted to do for a while.

I recommend: If you think blogging is your thing, find something you enjoy writing about and go for it. I use WordPress but there’s loads of other options out there.

Cleared out my wardrobe

This one is as good for your mind as it is for your wardrobe. I’m not a natural organiser but once I put the effort in it can be really satisfying. I also found lots of unworn clothes I have forgotten about which I’m hoping will help with my expensive ASOS ordering addiction.

I recommend: Take before and after pics a la Stacey Solomon’s Instagram stories.

Forgave myself for the “lazy” days

Somedays I don’t want to bake, clean, tidy or write and that’s okay. This is a scary time and I miss my friends and family. So sometimes I skip the workout and just sit in front of the TV with a new boxset or an old favourite. Also – Gin is in the fridge at all times.

I recommend: I’ve just stated watching the “A-Word” on BBC IPlayer which I’m really enjoying. And as an Oldie but Goldie – “F.R.I.E.N.D.S” never fails to cheer me up.

Found walking spots nearby

I have fully taken advantage of my one walk a day and try to get in 7,000-10,000 steps a day. For someone that usually works in an office all day, that is a revelation.

I recommend: Don’t go for walks in the same place, this will get dull. I googled local walking areas and was surprised with what I found! This is definitely something I’ll continue with.

There you have it, what I have been doing to keep myself sane during this time of being alone in Lockdown. I would love to hear your stories in the comments section below and any advice you may have. In the meantime, Keep safe, Stay Home and take care of yourself.

Thanks for reading!

Stacey

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