I'm the kind of person that needs a framework for good living. I can't just spontaneously move from one day to the next. Instead I like to live by themes, goals, and positive values. What does that mean during a pandemic?
Budget
This is a challenging time when it comes to a budget. No matter what your financial situation is, it's important to live lean during these days so you'll have the money you need for the long term or, even better, if you are in a situation of wealth, you'll have money to give away to those in need. This is not a time for grandiosity, but instead a time to lean in and use your money wisely. For our small family that means having money for good groceries, mostly cooking at home, and saving for college bills, needed home repairs, and a couple of special family celebrations that will occur in over a year from now.
Themes
I like to think in themes and have come up with the following themes for the current status of the pandemic:
Budget
This is a challenging time when it comes to a budget. No matter what your financial situation is, it's important to live lean during these days so you'll have the money you need for the long term or, even better, if you are in a situation of wealth, you'll have money to give away to those in need. This is not a time for grandiosity, but instead a time to lean in and use your money wisely. For our small family that means having money for good groceries, mostly cooking at home, and saving for college bills, needed home repairs, and a couple of special family celebrations that will occur in over a year from now.
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| https://www.isc.ro/ is a great Scrabble game, though the chat room associated with it can get a bit raunchy (I ignore that) |
I like to think in themes and have come up with the following themes for the current status of the pandemic:
- Intimate Gatherings: The pandemic gives us permission to gather with a few rather than many. We can use these gatherings to really learn about each other, encourage one another, and support one another's quests and interests in life. The result may be deeper, more meaningful relationships.
- The Art of the Picnic: Moving from cold weather to warm weather and the need to gather outside rather than inside leads me to the art of the picnic--what makes a good picnic? What foods, drinks, locations, seating, utensils and more create an ambiance of a wonderful picnic.
- Exploring Remote Areas Near Your Home: We so often travel afar for adventure when there are numerous nooks and crannies to explore near our home. This will be a summer of backyard, neighborhood, and community adventures.
- Virtual Travel Via Time and Place: It's a good time to travel virtually. For example, I traveled to Greece and Nigeria yesterday via two very interesting films. I plan to travel in time and place via books and film throughout this time.
- Games and other entertainment: I just love online Scrabble. There are countless games to explore online that challenge you in interesting and engaging ways.
Mission and Values
It is a good time to reflect on life too--a good time to think about what you really stand for and what you want to support. Too often we're too busy to give that deep and lasting attention, but this pandemic allows us the time to do that. This will benefit you and the rest of the world too.