Mastering Skills During a Lockdown: Strategies and Benefits
During the recent lockdown periods, many individuals have had the opportunity to focus on personal growth and skill development. Here, I share my experiences and strategies for mastering various skills that can enhance both personal and professional life.
Widening My Culinary Palette
One of the first skills I developed during the lockdown was cooking. I began experimenting with new recipes every weekend, ranging from Dalgona Coffee, Tandoori Chicken Momos, to Utthappam. These culinary adventures not only provided a gateway into the world of gastronomy but also brought a sense of accomplishment and joy into my daily routine.
Having a repertoire of dishes to master from around the globe was an enriching experience. Each new dish introduced a new blend of flavors, techniques, and even cultural nuances. The process of cooking, from following recipes to troubleshooting unexpected issues, was both challenging and rewarding.
Expanding Musical Horizons with the Harmonica
In addition to cooking, I also ventured into the realm of music by learning how to play the harmonica. Initially, I started with simple tunes such as Twinkle Twinkle Little Star and Happy Birthday, but soon progressed to a more complex piece - Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley. This journey highlighted the immense satisfaction that comes from mastering an instrument, boosting my confidence, and providing a soothing outlet during stressful times.
Enhancing Digital Literacy: The Power of Zoom
The lockdown also provided ample opportunity to hone digital skills, primarily through the use of Zoom. I became what could be termed a Zoom wizard, adept at navigating the nuances of every button and function. This proficiency has been invaluable in enabling me to conduct workshops, meetings, tutorials, and lectures virtually without any hiccups. My digital literacy extended beyond video conferencing, and I began creating digital worksheets for my students using PowerPoint. These worksheets were more engaging and user-friendly, significantly enhancing the online learning experience.
Embarking on a Journey of Personal Branding
Paralleling my skills in cooking and music, I also dedicated time to my personal branding. I started creating videos on topics close to my heart, such as health and wellness. This initiative not only helped me to establish a unique online identity but also deepened my understanding of diverse subjects and fostered a greater sense of engagement with my audience.
As part of my overall personal development, I also focused on improving my research and communication skills. Reading about health, diet, and fitness motivated me to incorporate a regular workout into my daily routine. These efforts have not only contributed to my personal well-being but also enriched my overall life experience.
Continuous Learning: The Learning Habit
A key strategy that has served me well during the lockdown is developing the habit of continuous learning. I made it a point to learn something new every day, irrespective of whether it was relevant to my existing knowledge or interests. This daily quest for knowledge has been particularly fruitful during the lockdown, where I delved deeper into various topics and engaged more actively with new ideas.
For example, I explore a wide array of subjects, from scientific discoveries to historical events, as well as modern technology and everyday life hacks. This diverse range of topics not only broadens my horizons but also enhances my critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
After a year on Quora, I can affirm that this practice has greatly enriched my understanding and appreciation of various fields, making me a more well-rounded and knowledgeable individual.