In our digital era, our go-to distraction from x, y, or z, are the screens of our smartphones, laptops, and tablets. I’m not here to give any sort of lecture on the overuse of technology and the effects it has on the human psyche. Instead, I’m going to suggest alternative activities to occupy our twiddling (or rather, tweeting) thumbs.
Writing
This may seem like an obvious replacement for some people, but chances are that there is some form of writing that you will find yourself benefiting from. If pouring emotions into a diary isn’t your cup of tea, there are other writing activities you may find cathartic.
Set aside 20 minutes to organize your weekly planner/bullet journal, in the most excessive manner possible. Consider using gel pens and highlighters for color coding and write in all of your upcoming assignment due dates, club meetings, work shifts, and social events.
The next time racing thoughts are keeping you up the night before your 8 am, try writing them down in a list. Many people find that this exercise helps them to clear their minds by visualizing that all of their mental clutter has transferred from their brains onto a physical piece of paper. This reduces any anxiety you may experience over possibly forgetting one of these thoughts and will alleviate the inability to focus.
Needlecrafts
Knitting, crocheting, and embroidering aren’t just for grandmas anymore. Just take a look at all of the trending categories on Pinterest or Etsy for some inspiration. These crafts may intimidate you, but with some patience you’ll see that the basics aren’t as complicated as you think. Try starting with something easy, like crocheting a scarf, or try stitching a design on an old t-shirt.
Going Outside
Seems like an obvious answer, I know, but getting some fresh air is pretty rejuvenating and Susky’s campus is a great place to walk around. There are always different flowers blooming, or leaves changing color. You could walk to the pavilion outside of Deg or sit on one of the benches behind Steele Hall. If you think you’ll be tempted to snapchat along the way, you could leave your phone in your room before going on that 20-minute stroll. As long as you’ve sent your streaks for the day, what do you have to lose?
Stretching
You may have intended to go work out at the gym but were unable to find the time or motivation to follow through. That sense of failure can bring your mood down even further. Instead of moping over fitstagram accounts and #bodygoals, put your phone down and take some time to move around.
This is especially good for anyone experiencing tension or having trouble falling asleep. You could benefit from some light bodyweight exercises in your dorm or inventing your own stretching routine. Whether you commit to a full 20-minutes in-between classes or squeeze 5-minutes in before bed, your body will thank you.
Cleaning
Stress-cleaning is a real thing, y’all. I will procrastinate on cleaning my room for weeks on end, and then straighten up the cumulative mess all at once. The pattern is common for anyone with a stressful schedule. We neglect chores when we are feeling run-down and then burst into a spontaneous cleaning marathon to regain control. Basically, we hit the reset button.
During the semester, I try my best to set aside time every Friday after classes to catch up on cleaning. I change my sheets, wash dishes, and organize my papers/books while a load of laundry is in the washer. After I transfer the clothes to the dryer, I usually hop in the shower to wash my hair as well.
These are some of the things I like to do when I catch myself spending too much time online, or I feel the urge to be productive. Sometimes I listen to music in the background, but besides that, I have no need to look at any electronics. If you clicked on more than 3 sites/apps to get to this article, maybe you should consider putting down your phone or closing your laptop!