Many have felt the need to grow or tackle passion projects during the pandemic and are now pushing back against this notion. To discuss the ways the pandemic has affected our perception of productivity, The 21st was joined by two journalists and a psychology professor. 

Today on The 21st: the history of Sears' tax breaks in Illinois, accents from around the state, and the environmental effects of staying at home during the pandemic.

Today on The 21st: we check in with reporters from around the state, preview the state legislative session that starts this week, and talk to an infectious disease expert about how to stay safe when stay-at-home restrictions are lifted.

For those with a little extra time on their hands, writer Elizabeth Segran says a new hobby is a great way to add structure to the day, find a bit of distraction, and even explore aspects of our identity. 

How to have those tough but necessary conversations about staying home to stop the spread of the coronavirus.