I can cope with the loneliness, it's the boredom I find hard...how to fill my time?

[WTF144]

I'm trying very hard not to feel sorry for myself since I know so many people are worse off than me...but I am struggling a bit. I have been out of work more than in work since March and have had nothing at all for the last 3 months due to covid. I have 2 children that I share 50/50 with my ex. And so I spend a lot of time on my own these days, can go days without talking to anyone. To be honest Im lucky that I don't get lonely very often, but the thing I do struggle with is boredom. I sorted out the garden in the first lockdown, have worked thro DIY jobs since, love reading, do crosswords, do daily long walks, don't especially enjoy TV, faff online....thats it. I feel lost by 6pm since I run out of things to do. Any brilliant ideas of what I can do to pass the time (rather then drinking ) Thanks for any tips!

I rely on crafty things, have you got a sewing machine? You can get a good basic one from Argos, begin with tote bags and cushion covers and progress to making your own clothes. Same with knitting, lots of YouTube videos will show you the basics, start with a scarf or you could knit squares for MN woolly hugs.

I find sudoku very absorbing when I'm stressed, and I'm using Duolingo to brush up on my school french.

Do you like baking? There are some amazing baking blogs with lots of inspiring projects.

Hope the helps a bit 😊

Jigsaws?

Future Learn has some great short courses, lots are free

How about a project? Learn a language or an instrument?

Watching with interest

Hmm. In a very similar situation. I either drink (sorry!!) or go to bed early!

Honestly?
Get up later, say 10.30- 12.00, then you will have more to fill your afternoons with and you'll be tired enough to relax for the evening, when you can. (Years and years of experience of being a lone parent to just 1 DC and working very part-time, due to health and mental health issues. Currently well enough to work full-time.)

Watching.

Mainly it's my dogs that keep me company but I'm back with my parents for a bit. I miss my animals as they are with a friend whist my house sells.

Due to different circumstances I have a similar problem. I'm planning on making my own personalised extreme budget note/cookbook. Also doing enough outdoor walking that I'm too tired to stay awake during the late evening/night. I also find getting organised for the next season helpful.

Thanks for all the ideas so far, I will investigate!
@CremeEggThief I do wake early unfortunately, and cant stay in bed because of my arthritis. Would love to be able to sleep the day away (tho not sure thats very healthy!)

That's a shame, @WTF144. Hopefully some of the other ideas will work for you.