I’m sure you’ll agree that creative writing is now an important skill to have, especially online. If you’re a wordsmith, go ahead and blog or even start writing in a journal. And even if you’re not, it’s still okay to just tweet, post on your wall or answer questions. Who knows, you might spark a great conversation and make some new contacts along the way.
Take an online course.
If you’re going to while away your time on video sites, why not watch something that’s both interesting and mind stretching? You can learn something for free from the Education channel of Youtube, or go the paid route and learn from professionals via Udemy or Lynda. Unlike your boring old college professors, these videos were made to be engaging and fun to watch. If you need to learn something specific, check out our post about learning anywhere, any time.
Cook something up.
I can personally attest that knowing how to cook is not only makes your taste buds happy, it also makes people like you better. Who doesn’t want to be friends with the person always bringing in delicious meals, right? You also get to create healthy, energy-packed meals the way you want (and afford), something you probably can’t do when you get food delivered.
Set up dates.
Dates don’t need to be the romantic kind especially with friends and family you want to stay in touch with. The long-term benefits of maintaining your relationships can’t be argued with, so setting aside regular time engaging with them is a must. It can be a simple lunch or dinner time out with friends or even a comfy stay at home affair with your kids. We’re social beings after all, so go on dates with your spouse, kids, and BFFs regularly.
Do volunteer work.
I know what you’re thinking: you serve others all day at work, so why do it during your free time too? Well, you’ll be surprised how different people treat you when people pay you to work versus when you do it of your own volition. The appreciation you get has a lot of emotional benefits and it also gives you a new found view on how to work with others. Seek out volunteer activities that also expand your skills like doing charity house building work or becoming a teacher to young kids.
Start a creative hobby.
If your work day is filled with meetings and routine tasks, a creative outlet can be a welcome way to keep busy while still relaxing. Your hobbies exercise your creative side and sharpen your problem solving skills, all without the pressure of performance unlike at work. Hobbies like woodworking, building models, and even graphic design are all stimulating activities while also giving you something to show for your hard work.
If you’re been an athlete in the past but recently fell off the wagon due to general busyness, now is the time to get back. There’s the physical benefits of sports, of course. But who also doesn’t like winning once in a while, right? And the best sports to pick up are the ones where you’re part of a team. It’s just that much more fun to be winning (and losing) with others.
Go networking.
Building your network is never a bad idea. Chat Zozo promo codes It’s always sound investment laying down the foundation of a relationship with potential clients, business partners and future bosses. Often, it’s the referrals of these connections that drive new business or land your next career move. Going networking doesn’t just mean attending conferences and local events. You can also meet up with past colleagues for both fun catch up times as well as exchanging business cards. Even better, you can start your own events so you have an excuse to connect with everyone in the room.