We live in a society where technology has admittedly taken over. Our free time is often spent scrolling through Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest or whichever platform you prefer. Basically, we spend our time looking at everyone else’s highlights, and wondering how we can make ourselves better instead of actually using our scrolling time to invest in ourselves. Hell, we even date online now. Next time you’re bored, instead of scrolling mindlessly through the ‘gram, try using your time to do something to invest in yourself. We’ve put together some ideas for you:
1. Listen to a podcast
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There are so many out there. You can listen to a podcast and scroll the ‘gram at he same time! Not sure where to start?
The Guilty Feminist – A comedic podcast made to speak about issues surrounding feminism, bringing in several guest speakers to touch on the subject.
Ted Talks – You can find any topic ever with this podcast. Choose your preference and listen to it.
Mind Pump – A great source of entertainment if you want to hear the truth about anything to do with fitness.
She Thrives Radio – Surround yourself with positive vibes on how to be more productive mentally and physically.
2. Take a bubble bath and read a book
Maybe you’re not a bath person and that’s fine. But once in a while, a nice bubble or Epson salt bath is actually good for relaxing your muscles. Leave your phone behind and get your eyes in the pages instead.
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3. Phone your mom
Sometimes life can get dull, and mom always has something mom-like to say to brighten your day. Mom is there to pass information onto you and no one is as wise, or has as much life experience as mom.
4. Watch YouTube tutorials
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Why can’t YouTube be educational. Maybe watching cat videos, or celebrity videos isn’t the best idea to stay productive, but there are a lot of YouTube videos that can teach you something new. Need ideas on where to start?
Makeup tutorials
Photo editing hacks
How to engage your IG followers
How to decorate for the next holiday
Baking hacks
Home workout ideas
5. Try a new hobby
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A hobby can include anything, like sewing, running, wood-working, fencing, etc. Start by picking an activity your familiar and comfortable with, and work you’re way up.
You never know where a hobby can take you. Maybe you’ll choose one that can provide some extra income.
6. Create a budget
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It’s no secret that our generation has the most financial anxiety in history. We’re strapped down by student loans and astronomical property values. But, we are also one of the most self-indulgent generations. We want what we want, when we want it.
Budgeting can go a long way. Not sure where to start? Here’s a couple tips.
Pull out a piece of paper and write down your monthly income. Under it, make a column that includes all of your necessary expenses and a column for all your unnecessary expenses. Figure out how much income you have left over and how much you can realistically save a month.
Also, consider opening a savings account and setting that amount to be automatically transferred each pay cheque. Don’t forget to include some room for yourself to get a coffee now and again, and go for a night out.
7. Plan your next holiday
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Maybe this isn’t even realistic for another year, but you can start researching places that you would want to go, reading travel blogs and reviews and budgeting accordingly for it.
8. Read a book
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Step away from the Netflix and pick up a book. They can just as, or even more entertaining than a movie or TV show. You’ll find you can get addicted quickly, and you’ll never want to put it down.
Next chapter please.
9. Organize something
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Studies have proven if you live in a messy environment, it can lead to problems in your mental health. Take it step by step: clear out one dresser drawer per day, organize your desk, or even make your bed. It can lead to a better you.
10. Take a nap
It’s okay to take nap now and again. Our brains are always on overdrive, so especially if you’re bored, you should take a nap to pass the time.
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11. Learn a language
There are some great online resources to help you learn new languages on your own. IOS and Android have free apps like Duolingo and Busuu you can use on your phone for convenience.
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If you ever go to the country where you’ve learned the native language, you’ll be able to communicate with the locals.
12. Go on that date you’ve been putting off
Maybe you’re blatantly not interested in dating, but sometimes we even forget to date our friends. Instead of FaceTime-ing them, how about going and actually having some face time?
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The next time boredom hits, you’ve got the tips above to turn to. Don’t be afraid of moving out of your comfort zone and trying something new. You might surprise yourself.