COVID-19 has brought with it many challenges; from distressing reports of despair and loss to potential health crises, but amidst all that, there’s a copper lining on the horizon. Many people now have a little discretionary time on their hands to do what they want.

For the savvy professional, this is a time to look for ways to boost your career. If used wisely, the time spent sequestered in the house can be an ideal opportunity to learn new things, and even new skills.

Here 6 tips and ideas on how to use your free time wisely and give your career an extra push during this difficult time.

1. Learn a New Language

One of the best ways to open yourself up to new job opportunities and enrich your CV is learning a foreign language. Today, you can use a language learning app like Babbel to become proficient in a foreign language of your choice, without having to leave your home.

Available for iOS as well as other devices, the app has 14 different languages to choose from and everything you need to get started. Use the free time wisely, and by the time you get back to the office, you will have some expertise to showcase to your bosses.

2. Network Online

Events have been cancelled and will continue to remain cancelled for the foreseeable future. You, therefore, need to find a new way to network with other industry professionals. Use the internet to seek out other professionals, and even make it a point to attend virtual events. Be on the lookout for professional groups you can join on LinkedIn and Facebook.

3. Update Your LinkedIn Profile

Can you remember when you last updated your LinkedIn profile? Considering that you now have lots of free time, go through your website, portfolio, and other crucial documents to ensure they are up-to-date. Updating the portfolio involves considering the audience you have in mind. Ask yourself what employers are likely to search for when some sense of normalcy resumes. Apply the keywords you identify to your LinkedIn and website profiles to help you to stand out.

4. Review and Improve Your CV

There has never been a better time for you to review and improve your qualifications than during this pandemic. You have all the time you need to boost your skills by analyzing job descriptions and trying to match them with what you already possess.

Check the job descriptions of your desired roles and then determine whether you possess the said skills. You could have the skills mentioned but haven’t used them in a while. The analysis should provide you with a good picture of the skills you need to update to make yourself more marketable.

5. Take an Online Masterclass

Just because you have found yourself stuck at home doesn’t mean that learning has completely ground to a halt. You can use this period to join and complete inexpensive or free masterclasses online. There are many platforms offering courses to professionals looking to upgrade their skill sets. Use the available time to develop new software or IT skills, e.g., Excel. Alternatively, you could also opt to undertake training that has the potential to boost your career aspirations.

6. Listen to Inspirational Content, e.g., TED Talks

Training your mind to listen to inspirational content every morning can help brighten your day. Many people start their mornings by checking the dailies or watching the news. But considering that the world is filled with negative news these days, this can affect how you spend your time at home. Feed your mind mental protein by making sure you listen to inspirational or motivational content each morning.

The past few months have been filled with all kinds of negative news. However, you can use the free time to reflect on your aspirations, goals, and work-life. Try to establish how you will move forward with your life when normalcy returns. You should also make a plan for the things you want to achieve in the coming days.