Sitting at home, with so much free time and so little things to do, I was finding it increasingly hard to keep myself entertained. Previously, if I would ever get this bored, there was always something I could do, whether it be hanging with friends, going to a park to play around, or turning on the TV to watch sports. With all of those options thrown out the window, I had to find other ways to remain occupied. And, at first, it was challenging. Thankfully, however, I learned to enjoy the small things.
If you had told me two months ago that I would voluntarily be doing puzzles and reading books, I would have called you crazy. I have always considered these two activities just a step above torture, and probably would have preferred to watch paint dry. Over the course of this quarantine, I have learned things as simple as these two have great value in them. When you immerse yourself in a book or stare blankly at a table with pieces strewn all over it trying to find that last edge piece, you lose track of time and seem disassociated with all of the craziness in the world around you. It is calming, relieving, and de-stressing.
Apart from just puzzles and books, I have learned to enjoy many other things as well. For example, when my dad needs help with something, he always tends to ask me, instead of either of my sisters, and I hated it. With about 15 new pieces of furniture in their boxes sitting in my garage, all needing assembly, I was dreading all of the hours I was about to spend putting them together. However, once we opened them and started assembling, I found myself not wanting to stop, even when my mom called us up for dinner. It could be because it is like doing a puzzle in 3D, but I am not really sure.
Although this quarantine and social-distancing may seem terrible, I have learned how to enjoy the small things in life.

I always enjoy reading posts about individuals learning to appreciate the small things in life. There’s so much in life that we take for granted. It’s been ages since I’ve done a puzzle or leisurely read a book, but your post really motivates me to complete one today. Being able to zone out on such activities and enter a state of flow is extremely relaxing and one of the best ways to de-stress, I agree. I hope the rest of the semester goes well for you and that your summer is relaxing!
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It is very important to find ways to relax and de-stress, especially during times like these, so I’m glad you have been able to find something that allows you to do that. I also really enjoy putting things together whether it be assembling furniture or building something from scratch. The next time you get bored, I would recommend that you try to build something from scratch if you have the tools and resources to do so. Apart from being relaxing, it is very rewarding to be able to say “I made this” when you finish even if it is something simple like a birdhouse. I hope you continue to find ways to entertain yourself until things return to normal.
-Nick Whaley
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The little things like board games and helping out around the house can make a big impact in a world were we can’t do much. I find it really good that you have found a way to spend this unfathomable free time. Personally, I’ve been playing an excessive amount of video games, some even with my professors. Great post and I hope that we all can get back to our normal lives and enjoy our normal activities!
-Austin Grimm
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