We're all facing a situation that we have never experienced in our lifetimes. It may be the most challenging situation you ever faced, depending on your experiences. Hopefully, we're all practicing social distancing and hunkering down, for our and others' safety.

But for some, it's the boredom that's the most difficult. And no reassuring words can alleviate the boredom. So I've compiled a list of 10 things you can do to ease the pressure. I'm not going to tell you to read books, watch movies or play video games — you've probably done that already and I'm pretty sure you're tired of hearing people suggest them. For sure you'll find at least one of these things to work for you.

1. Start a blog

If you have opinions about things or just want to share what you're doing, this can provide an outlet for it. You could even use Facebook, but try to create a daily or scheduled posting, at least a few times per week, to make it consistent. You might think you aren't a good writer but with time your skills will improve.

2. Stay connected.

Even if you can't hang out with friends, you can still reach out and chat with them using one of the many options available to video chat or call. Keeping in touch will help reduce stress and anxiety, and it makes one feel less lonely. It's also a good way of supporting one another in this stressful time.

3. Start a garden in your porch or backyard

I get that a lot of us might be living in an apartment, but you can still plant stuff in your balcony or indoors using plastic bottles. Not only is gardening fun but it can also provide you with food, depending on what you plant. You could even take seeds from some of the fruits and vegetables you have at home if you couldn't find them elsewhere. Some vegetables, such as onions and potatoes, can be planted directly into the ground. There are so many options of things to plant, and there are many free resources online that can assist you in learning how to do it. Here's a website that explains how to plant using seeds from vegetables you get from the grocery store.

4. Wake up the entrepreneur in you

Lots of us have ideas about starting our own business or have a hobby/interest that we think could be profitable but just couldn't find the time to work on it. Now is the time to take the next step. If you set time aside every day to consistently work on improving your skill or learning the tools needed to start your business, you'll find time passing very quickly.

5. Learn a new language

Yes, it's possible to learn a new language using online tools. There are lots of free resources online that can help you get started. Free apps such as Duolingo can help you gain at least a working vocabulary to impress friends or allow you to get by as a tourist.

6. Adopt a furry friend to keep you company

I heard stories about people who abandoned their pets during this time because they had to travel. Also, many shelters do not have the full staff due to the situation. So, it's a great time to help out while adding joy to your family. According to the CDC, there's no evidence that cats or dogs can carry or transfer Covid-19, so that shouldn't be a concern.

7. Join a charity or non-profit and start helping out

Now is the time when volunteer help is most needed but many people are either not able to, or are shunning away from doing it. This leaves a gap that if you're able to fill will be very useful and very rewarding. Many people gain a sense of purpose and hopefulness by helping others, especially in difficult times like these. Some work needs to be done in person, but there are also many things that can be done remotely. Just look up a local charity in your area and ask how you can help out.

8. Enjoy the outdoors

This is a great time to go out and breathe in fresh clean air. Being in the outdoors is therapeutic on its own, and anything that can alleviate stress is good for your immune system and overall health. Here are some of the things you can do outdoors:

• Since you can't go to the gym you can do your workout outdoors, or some brisk walking
• Take a picture of something interesting every day and post it on Instagram, or your preferred social media platform
• Observe the nature around you and soak in the sounds and smells
• Practice your favorite sport
• If you live on a lake or next to a body of water you can go fishing, and hopefully, that will take care of dinner for a day
• Walk or play with your dog, if you have one

9. Learn to cook

This is a great time to show off your cooking skills or start working on them and impress your loved ones. With limited supplies in some places, you might have to get creative. Of course, there are a lot of resources online to help you with whatever cooking project you have in mind. There are also tons of videos that can make it super easy to start making dishes right away!

10. Work on the projects you have been putting off

Did you ever have a plan in mind to write a book, learn something new, set some writing or reading goals, or even work on a home improvement project, but never thought you would have the time to do it? Now is the time to start working on your project. So, get your creative juices going and start turning your dream into reality.

I hope you enjoyed reading this and found at least one thing that interests you. We will get over this situation but in the meantime, you can use it to your advantage. If you believe in God you will be relieved knowing that everything is in His hands, and whatever the plan, God wants good for humanity.