These five things have been a part of me for years. They keep me motivated and calm among many unpleasant things out there:

1. Cooking

Cooking. I am good at cooking Sumatera cuisine that’s famous for curry and fried dishes. My mother taught me to cook Rendang, Chicken Curry, Dendeng Balado, etc.

2. Gardening

I have a collection of plants in the front and back yards. Most are tropical plants, including Hoyas, Philodendrons, Succulents, and Caladiums. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I spent most of my time in the garden. I also grow spider plants, sansevieria, and golden pothos, which are good for purifying polluted air.

3. Cleaning the house

I never consider this as a regular household chore, the benefits are so many for my family and my peace of mind. A clean and tidy house gives positive energy to all of us. I feel calmer and ready to continue my days after cleaning or tidying up unused items in the house.

4. Pouring out ideas, experiences, and journeys on journals, and my social media, including blogs, Instagram, TikTok, etc.

5. Writing Articles

I am a regular writer for several mass media in Jambi, and occasionally write scientific papers in several national and international journals.

Life is not always smooth. One needs a mechanism to survive by having positive hobbies or activities. Thank goodness I have these five good things. All seems simple to others but for me, it’s important to maintain sanity.