Bored with the quarantine? Be the best you

I’m seeing a lot of posts on social media about people being bored in quarantine and especially without basketball as a needed distraction. I get it. I love basketball, too (well, obviously). Personally I can’t relate to the boredom because I’ve been as busy as I’ve ever been and I know a lot of you are equally as busy. Still I can imagine that many of you are left with a lot of free time on your hands.

I can see how it might be fun to binge watch five seasons of a show you’ve heard good things about. I can see how you might want to play video games like you’re Gordon Hayward on rehab. There’s nothing wrong with any of that. Knock yourself out. But if and when you get bored of that, I have a few additional suggestions.

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When in doubt, think about what Brad Stevens would say. Focus on growth mentality. Learn from your mistakes and improve every day. Minimize your weaknesses and maximize your strengths. In short, be the best you.

Always thought about taking an online course in something that interests you? Have you ever wanted to get certification in something that could open up career opportunities? Been putting off reading a great book that people have recommended? Been putting off a project around the house? Or maybe you just need to work on your jumper. No time like the present.

Done with all that? Still bored? Well, start with the people around you. Look for ways to go above and beyond loving those that love you. You know them better than you know anyone. I know sometimes they get on your nerves but deep down you know they would do anything for you. When’s the last time you did something awesome for them out of the blue?

Got that covered? Great, expand your circle. Try some random acts of kindness for friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Even if that just means reaching out and saying, “how are you? No, really. Tell me what you’ve been going through.”

Got that covered? Outstanding! What’s next? What are you passionate about? What moves you? What are your talents? Maybe look into ways you can contribute to or assist with a charity or non-profit organization. You’d be surprised with what you can do online. There’s certainly no shortage of people in need around the world.

I’m not trying to guilt you here (well, maybe a tiny little nudge). I just want you to follow your heart and do what you feel led to do. Like I said, start small with the people right in front of you. Be the best you. God bless.