Lots of great software already posted, but with some complaints about windows inefficiencies I can’t believe no one has posted:

Microsoft PowerToys https://learn.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/powertoys/

Basically, it’s a suite of tools that windows devs have made to make their lives easier while working in windows. Some features have made it into actual windows releases over the years, but most not.

It has an always on top, batch rename, customisable window snapping, better search, keyboard key remapper, mouse across multiple devices, colour eyedropper, and many many more.

Absolute must have for anyone that uses windows regularly.

https://www.khanacademy.org/

Helped me get through my engineering degree. Absolutely the best maths education I’ve ever seen.

In a very different way to most of the answers on here so far:

A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence.

It’s simultaneously excruciatingly dull and mindbendingly interesting. A genuinely fascinating film, but requires a huge amount of focus and commitment from the viewer. Possibly my favourite film ever

Had a quick scroll through and didn’t see it anywhere yet, so:

Dear Esther.

Actually, reminds me I should play through it again, it’s been a few years.

Not seen anyone say this yet, but last year my partner and I were in a similar boat. Bumble (the dating app) has a “BFF” mode for making friends. It’s worked out amazingly for us and we now have a great group.

It can take a bit of persistence, and like dating, some won’t work out. But it’s a great way to meet potential friends, and even in relatively small cities you’ll find some people on there.