The COVID-19 pandemic changed our daily routines in a big way, especially during the early days of lockdown. With movement restricted and many activities put on hold, it became more important than ever to find ways to stay focused and make the most of our time at home. If you’re wondering how to be productive this lockdown, understanding the context and making a plan is the first step.
Reflecting on Lockdown
It’s been over five years since South Africa initiated its first nationwide lockdown on March 26, 2020, aiming to curb the spread of COVID-19 . While the strictest restrictions have long been lifted, the experience underscored the importance of adaptability and productivity during challenging times. Understanding how to be productive during lockdowns remains valuable, as it equips us to handle future disruptions with resilience
Nationwide Lockdown
As of midnight on Thursday 26 March 2020, South Africa will enter a nationwide lockdown for 21 days. This decision was made to protect millions of South Africans from contracting Covid-19. Under the lockdown, no individual is allowed to leave the house unless they are buying food or medicine, or collecting social grants. The Disaster Management Act ends on 16 April 2020.
Nationwide lockdown means you need to completely avoid contact from people. This excludes the people who you’re currently living with and essential workers when you’re running errands. At Skills Academy we would like to give you tips on how to be productive this lockdown.
What Can I Do During Lockdown?
Many businesses are shutting down during lockdown and some employees are working from home. If you are not sure how to keep yourself sane and entertained for the next 21 days, here’s what you can do to be more productive this lockdown:
Take Some Time Out for Yourself
Read the books you never got to read and use the scented candles you’ve been saving. You won’t be able to visit the salon or spa, so why not create your own pamper day at home?
It’s time to put yourself first and try to avoid neglecting your well-being. Pick up a hobby or two. Since you won’t be able to eat at your favourite restaurant, why not prepare your favourite food at home? Social media can also be triggering during this time, so log off for a while.
Expand Your Knowledge
With all this free time on your hands, why not pick up a skill or two? This is the best time to enrol for a course. Did you know that Skills Academy will continue operation during lockdown? With distance learning you can practice self distancing, because there aren’t any classes scheduled. Now’s your chance! Finish matric, get your diploma or study without matric!
Finish Your Assignments
If you’re already studying, get ahead of the class to finish all your assignments. Use the free-time to your advantage and start early with your exam prep. You may also figure out which study method suits you best and research study tips. Don’t stop learning.
Choose Us During Lockdown
Other colleges are closing their doors during these trying times, but we will continue running our operations. Not to worry, we are not putting our team at risk. Our dedicated staff will operate during office hours from the comfort of their home. Here’s what you can expect from us.
- All your study material will be sent to you via email
- We will answer your phone calls, Whatsapp messages and emails
- Your assignments will be marked and you can expect feedback from your tutors
Get Productive and Enrol Today!
- Speak to one of our course experts at 070 4381 926
- Or fill out this registration form for a call back
Frequently Asked Questions
The best method depends on your style, but here are three popular ones:
- Pomodoro Technique: Work in 25-minute sessions with short breaks.
- Time Blocking: Schedule tasks into specific time slots.
- Getting Things Done (GTD): Break big goals into small, clear action steps.
Try a few to see what works best for you!
The 3 P’s stand for:
- Prioritize: Focus on what really matters.
- Protect: Guard your time and avoid distractions.
- Pause: Take breaks to recharge.
Using these can help you work smarter, not harder.
Staying productive at home during lockdown can be challenging, but the following strategies can help:
- Stick to a routine to give your day structure.
- Create a workspace that helps you focus.
- Set small goals and take regular breaks.
- Avoid distractions like social media or background noise.
These tips can help you stay on track, even at home.
