Goodbye 2020 and what a year! So much has changed in such a short space of time. It’s been a challenge finding our feet, but we’ve adapted our surroundings as best we could to suit the new normal.
Yet if this remarkable year has taught us anything, it’s that you can never be too prepared for the unexpected. So, we’ve created 7 life-admin tips to help you get organised, increase your wellbeing and plan ahead for a more positive and productive 2021.
Tip #1 – Improve facetime
Video calls boomed during 2020 and suddenly we’re all on display; our talking heads encased in boxes on laptop screens and smartphones. Well, video chats are here to stay so why not upgrade your home office into a cosy studio setting: add a desk mic to finally be heard clearly by friends and business contacts; say goodbye to that harsh lampshade and enhance your space with softer lighting. A separate videocam will provide focus and a more pleasing range of angles. Finish your studio makeover with a bookshelf, your favourite art print, framed photographs and a prickly potted cactus or two.
Tip #2 – Protect your pets
While many households opened their doors to furry new friends for companionship during 2020 and we all got excited, it goes without saying that pets are not just for lockdown. They are important family members you’ll want to protect, and their welfare should top any life admin list of essential things to do. So, get the right cover for your pride and joy and have peace of mind knowing they’re covered against life’s little mishaps. Remember, your pet insurance may not cover everything health related for your pet, so be sure to learn all about things like their vaccinations, flea and worming treatments and their dental care.
Tip #3 – Reduce your driving costs
We’ve changed how much we drive. Many vehicles that previously clocked thousands of miles on their annual commute now only travel a fraction of the distance. We’ve got plenty of tips for reducing your car costs including a new option for those who don’t drive many miles. So, if you’ve recently changed how much you drive make sure your car insurance suits your current needs, and not the needs you had.
Tip #4 - Change your passwords
Here’s a simple life admin task that could save you a lot of aggravation: changing your passwords. Many cybercrimes can be prevented by having a strong password, so updating yours and making a record of any changes is one way of keeping your home secure. Plus, changing your passwords regularly is a very good habit to get into, now that we’re spending more time (and money) online.
Tip #5 – Check your policy details
Keep your contents insurance up to date. Like many households, you may have bought a lot of new toys and fancy gadgets recently, including laptops, monitors, home TV screens, home consoles, etc, plus the bicycle/s you bought during lockdown. Make sure you’re covered for all these new items and that your valuation matches your contents. Get it right and your insurer could help towards replacing any items that are damaged in the home. Get it wrong and you could be paying for a new bicycle.
Tip #6 – Explore the great indoors
Last year it was ‘mend and make do’, wondering how to convert an airing cupboard into a home office suite. This year, if you still need more room, then plan ahead to transform your home into a spacious ocean of calm. Have a flick through this guide if you’re thinking of adding Velux windows to bring light to a dimly-lit loft, or turning that shed into a sunlit garden room, or your garage into a games room. It will give you a rough idea of what your home improvements may cost and whether they’re likely to add value to your property over time.
Tip #7 – Know your bills intimately
Now that we are actually spending more time in the home it’s probably a good idea to know how much it costs to run one, especially if your income has changed during lockdown. Although relevant during the festive period, it’s good to have these details to hand all year round. The more you understand where your money goes, the less you will waste and the more savings you will make.
…and that’s definitely something to look forward to.
Happy New Year from MORE THAN
