Livelihood has been disrupted due to the pandemic. Some expats are unable to go back abroad due to travel restrictions.
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But this free time can be a blessing for some because they can use it wisely. However, some may not have the same privilege as others. But the important thing is to be as productive as much as possible.
Use Your Time Wisely
This pandemic has changed the lives of everyone, especially the expats who are unable to continue working. It can be hard, especially if funds are not enough. But the best thing to do is to find ways to be more productive. Here are some suggestions for you:
1. Learn a digital skill.
Assuming that your internet connection is good, now is the best time to learn some digital skills that you can use at work. Some of the skills you can learn are graphic design, video editing, or photo editing. Or if you wanted to learn more about spreadsheets, you can start doing it now.
By upskilling, you can add more value to your work. Or you can use this new skill to find a second source of income.
2. Watch video tutorials.
YouTube is home to so many useful videos that can help you. Do you want to learn how to cook something? There’s a video of it. Do you want to sew a face mask? Someone has uploaded a video of that.
Of course, you need to filter the information you get from these videos. Try to find videos that provide the information you need.
3. Enroll in online courses
Did you know that as an OFW, you can enroll in one of the TESDA courses for free? Some of the courses are automotive, food and beverage training, and electronics. If you are interested, you can visit the TESDA website for more information. You will have a certificate of training which you can add to your CV.
Universities abroad also offer complimentary courses, regardless of nationality. You can enroll in health courses, speech development, writing courses, business courses, etc. You do need to pay some amount to get a certificate or diploma, though. But if you do not have the budget for it, it is still okay. What matters is that you learned something new.
4. Start a small online business.
Now that you have gathered new skills and information, why not try to offer these services online? If you are now a better cook, why not start a food delivery business? Or if you are confident about your graphic design skills, then you can offer your services. If you advertise your skills in your social media accounts, you will eventually find someone to hire you.
5. Start a vegetable garden.
If you want to get away from the computer screen, why not go outside and plant a vegetable? Even if you don’t have a large yard, you can grow your plants from recycled materials. Some use recycled soda bottles, water bottles, and some even recycle their surgical face masks. You have probably seen videos of urban gardeners when you were browsing YouTube.
Growing your vegetable not only helps you be active, but you are also contributing food to your family’s table. If you have extra, you can sell or barter with your neighbors. And don’t forget to observe social distancing when doing so.
These are just some suggestions to help you survive until your next deployment. In the meantime, try to be more creative in stretching your savings. And eventually, you will overcome this hurdle you are facing.
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