For decades, Ari Wibowo has been an established name as one of Indonesia’s most respected actors, now he is also tackling the F&B business by running his own restaurant, GIOI, in Jakarta. Having to stay at home has brought big changes to his day-to-day activities, but he shares the silver lining with us.
Q: How has the stay-at-home situation changed your daily life?
A: It has been an easy change to be honest, as I have always enjoyed the comfort of my own home, as do my wife and kids. I do miss being more productive with my time; previously, as an actor and restaurant owner, I would normally spend my days either involved on shooting locations with casts and crew, or at the restaurant mingling with my guests. Since neither activity is running during this PSBB (large-scale social distancing) period, there isn’t much for me to do.
Q: What activities do you like to do now that you have to stay at home more?
A: Through my Instagram account, I keep myself busy with Instagram endorsements, sharing awareness with my million plus followers to always practice social distancing and wear masks in public. I also help distribute masks for free and am actively involved in getting donated funds to the communities that most need them during this pandemic.
Q: Please share your tips on what to do to stay positive at home.
A: I keep a positive mind set by always trying to set a target each day, whether it’s reading a book, or doing a physical workout. This way, there is always a positive change, no matter how small, but the change is there each day. Psychologically, we feel good after a task or target has been reached.
Q: Do you have any tips to maintain a healthy lifestyle?
A: I like working out, sunbathing and spending time doing activities with my wife and kids. Stop thinking about the things you cannot do because you are stuck at home, but concentrate on what you can do. What better time to be closer to your family than now? There will never be a better moment than right now.
Q: Since you have to stay at home more, what do you miss most from normal life?
A: I miss my work, being on location and earning money. I also miss riding my motorcycle, touring with my friends. Indonesia is so beautiful, there is so much yet to explore. But for now, it’s not about me, it’s about the common good, and for that, we all need to remain at home, for the safety of all.
Q: What is the first country you want to visit after the quarantine is over and why?
A: Germany, it’s the country where I was born, and where I spent all of my childhood. I want to show my kids the castles, the forests and the beautiful cities. They have never been there. So, fingers crossed this pandemic will be over soon.
