It has been just over 48 hours but feels like a lot longer given the boredom and lack of motivation to do anything. The lack of motivation is particularly concerning seen as I am usually very self-motivated and initiate useful projects in the absence of tasks. This means I am always busy and productive.
However the most useful thing I have done in the past 2 days was to take my dog for a walk. Ok, I hear you – am I allowed to do that? As it happens, there hasn’t been the clearest directive about what Scott Morrison means when he says ‘self-isolation’. Strictly speaking, the term is erroneous, as what he is asking of us (those who have returned from overseas post 15 March 2020) is along the lines of self-quarantine. He has, however (bless him for this) mentioned that we should all be using common sense. When hefty fines and public health is at stake, I like to support my common sense with some sensible research. As I have discovered, going for a walk and/or a bike ride on your own are the easiest ways to stay physically and mentally fit while still fulfilling the requirements of the home-quarantine. One could exercise at home but a change of scenery is very welcome after being within 4 walls for days on end.
Some people get bored quicker than others but eventually everyone feels the desolation and irritability that accompanies isolation of any kind. So how do you stay sane, get your supplies and also stay married while fulfilling the public interest requirements of 14 day home-quarantine?
Well, I made a list of the things I could do including watching a new show on Netflix and then eventually did none of them and spent my day vegging out in front of daytime news on free TV because I couldn’t even be bothered entering my friend’s Netflix password.
The truth is, inactivity makes you lazy. Having free time does not mean that one’s outstanding tasks will now get done because other than time, you also need initiative to commence or complete those. The drive to do things is naturally lowered when you have indefinite amounts of time, when you’re facing uncertainty or even anxiety regarding your future and feel helpless in more ways than one.
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