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When life has you locked down, you can sit by and let the boredom set in, or use the opportunity to learn something.

Podcasts are a great way to feel less lonely in your home. Having a friendly voice on in the background makes the room feel less empty. You could also take in some TED Talks, because, why not?

The popular non-profit endeavours to spread important ideas via short-form conversations, and I don’t know about you, but I haven’t had much opportunity to speak to people outside of my home for two weeks. I’m keen to mix it up.

The Manual took things a step further and identified the TED Talks most pertinent to these trying times.

Add these to your ‘watch list’:

‘What Fear Can Teach Us’ by Karen Thompson Walker

What can we learn from fear? That’s the question that Karen Thompson Walker tackles in this fascinating look into why we feel afraid sometimes and what we can do with it.

‘The Gift and Power of Emotional Courage’ by Susan David

I don’t know about you, but I’ve had a lot of feelings lately. There’s nothing quite like a lockdown to send you on an emotional rollercoaster.

Dr. Susan David says that’s a good thing and goes on to talk about how to accept one’s feelings and go with the flow.

‘The Paranoid Optimist’ by Charlie Jane Anders

This short whimsical talk by science-fiction writer Charlie Jane Anders imagines what would happen if science and nature were intertwined, painting an unusual vision for the future of the planet.

‘How a Team of Chefs Fed Puerto Rico After Hurricane Maria’ by José Andrés

If you need reminding that human beings have the potential to overcome anything with a bit of kindness, you’ll enjoy chef José Andrés’ talk about how he and a team of cooks worked together to feed Puerto Rico after a natural disaster ravaged the island.

‘You Are Not Alone in Your Loneliness’ by Jonny Sun

Loneliness has become a big part of everyday life, especially for those facing the national lockdown by themselves. Here, Jonny Sun shares how he overcame loneliness by opening up to strangers on the Internet.

‘Where Does Creativity Hide?’ by Amy Tan

Creativity abounds when we’re confined indoors. Amy Tan delves into the topic of creativity, to inspire you to find yours and use it.

If you prefer podcasts, we’ve listed our favourites before. A more recent one on COVID-19 and education is definitely worth a listen.

As we go head into the weekend, may you stay happy, healthy, and home.

[source:manual]